In a candid conversation with AI researcher and podcast host Lex Fridman, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke extensively about India’s growing global role and his interactions with world leaders. Among the highlights, PM Modi shared personal anecdotes about former US President Donald Trump, praising his courage and humility.
Recalling the 2019 ‘Howdy Modi’ event in Houston, PM Modi described Trump’s spontaneous gesture during the rally. “We had an event in Houston, Howdy, Modi. Both President Trump and I were there, and the entire stadium was packed. A massive crowd at a US political event is rare. While such crowds are common in sports, this was extraordinary for a political rally,” PM Modi said.
Highlighting Trump’s humility, Modi shared how the then-US President chose to sit in the audience while he addressed the crowd. “The President of the United States sitting below and listening to me was a remarkable gesture,” Modi noted.
The Prime Minister further recounted a defining moment during the event when he requested Trump to take a lap around the stadium. “Without a moment’s hesitation, he agreed and started walking with me. His entire security detail was caught off guard. For me, that moment was truly touching—it showed me that this man has courage,” Modi said.
Modi emphasized the trust and mutual respect between the two leaders. “He makes his own decisions, but he also trusted me enough to walk with me into the crowd. It was a display of a strong bond and mutual trust,” he added.
Drawing a parallel between their leadership philosophies, PM Modi noted that Trump’s “America First” approach resonated with his own “India First” policy. He also referred to the recent attack on Trump during his campaign. “Even after being shot, he remained unwaveringly dedicated to America. His resilience reminded me of the same President who walked hand in hand with me that day,” Modi said.
Reflecting on his first official visit to the White House during Trump’s presidency, PM Modi mentioned that Trump defied conventional protocols. “He broke all formalities. He had no cue cards or aides, and personally toured me around the White House, pointing things out himself,” Modi said.
PM Modi concluded by saying that his rapport with Trump was rooted in their shared nationalist spirit and commitment to their respective nations.
