Formal Handshake: A Shift in Modi-Trump Relationship?

Small gestures are sometimes seen in the relationship of the leaders. When Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump came face to face after about 16 months at the G7 summit in France, then their body language was the most discussed. The two leaders, who once made headlines by hugging in front of cameras around the world, were seen only in a formal handshake this time. Neither the warmth as before, nor the spontaneity, which had given a special identity to the Modi-Trump relationship for years. Even during the group photo session, no special eye contact, nor a namaste or other intimate gesture was seen between the two leaders. Although Trump appeared to pat Modi in his own style, the photos and videos did not reflect the old glow of the relationship. That is why this meeting at the G7 is not just a diplomatic event, but an indicator of the current state of India-US relations. Amid all these signs, expectations are now pinned on the bilateral meeting. Modi and Modi are meeting for the first time after the election.