Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States, which included a meeting with former President Donald Trump, has drawn significant global attention. However, beyond the official photo-ops and rehearsed statements, the visit has sparked widespread criticism and ridicule. The question remains: was this visit a genuine diplomatic success, or just another exercise in political optics?
One of the most talked-about moments of the visit was Modi’s reliance on cue cards during the joint press conference. His difficulty in articulating spontaneous responses raised questions about his preparedness and command over diplomatic discussions.
This reliance on scripted responses was widely mocked on social media and highlighted by international news outlets, casting doubt on his ability to engage in substantive, off-the-cuff diplomacy.
A key moment of embarrassment came when an Indian journalist posed a question to Trump. Instead of responding diplomatically, Trump openly dismissed the journalist, claiming he could not understand the question despite it being in clear English.
This incident not only exposed the lack of warmth in US-India relations but also showcased how Modi’s visit lacked the genuine engagement needed for a strong bilateral partnership.
Many analysts argue that Modi’s visit was aimed at creating a positive domestic narrative rather than securing tangible diplomatic gains. His administration, often accused of prioritizing spectacle over substance, may have used the visit as a campaign tool rather than a strategic effort to strengthen India’s international standing.
While Indian media attempted to portray the visit as a diplomatic triumph, the international community largely saw it as a superficial exercise with little real impact.
Repeated diplomatic missteps have raised concerns about India’s credibility as a global power. While Modi has engaged in numerous high-profile foreign visits, questions remain about the actual benefits these trips bring to India.
In contrast, countries like Pakistan have maintained a strategic and balanced diplomatic approach, securing meaningful alliances rather than relying on high-profile summits and grandstanding.
Despite Modi’s efforts to frame his US visit as a diplomatic success, the reality paints a different picture. The awkward moments during his joint press conference, Trump’s dismissive attitude, and the lack of concrete agreements suggest that the visit was more about optics than achieving meaningful results.
As India navigates its foreign policy challenges, it must move beyond symbolic gestures and focus on substantive diplomatic engagements that yield real benefits.
