As discussed today in our Salaam JK segment on Gulistan News, https://fb.watch/xf0ecLwtp-/
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated Donald Trump on being sworn in as the 47th President of the United States during the 60th Presidential Inauguration at the US Capitol in Washington, DC. PM Modi expressed his enthusiasm for strengthening US-India relations, stating on X: “Congratulations my dear friend President @realDonaldTrump on your historic inauguration… I look forward to working closely together once again.” External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar represented PM Modi as his special envoy at the ceremony, delivering a personal letter from Modi to Trump.
Trump’s return to the White House is significant for both domestic and global politics. India is particularly interested in the impact this could have on bilateral trade and economic ties, as Trump is expected to continue his assertive trade policies. The inauguration was attended by dignitaries, including tech leaders like Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk, and Sundar Pichai, along with former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama.
This inauguration marked several historical moments, including Trump becoming only the second US President to serve two non-consecutive terms, after Grover Cleveland in the 19th century. It was also one of the rare instances where the swearing-in ceremony was held indoors, a tradition last seen in 1985 during Ronald Reagan’s second term. Outgoing President Joe Biden welcomed Trump to the White House for a tea ceremony before the oath-taking, symbolizing a peaceful transfer of power.
The ceremony also saw the participation of Trump’s new cabinet nominees, including Marco Rubio, nominated for secretary of state. The day began with a private church service attended by Trump, his family, and close associates, marking the start of his second term with a mix of tradition and modernity.