'Prior programmes': PM Modi declines Donald Trump's US visit invite after G7; invites him to India instead

NEW DELHI: Foreign secretary Vikram Misri on Wednesday said that US President Donald Trump invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the United States after the conclusion of G7 Summit in Canada's Calgary.However, PM Modi declined the invitation, citing prior commitments."Trump asked PM Modi if he could visit the US on his return from Canada; however, the Prime Minister expressed inability, citing prior programmes," Misri said.After wrapping up his Canada visit, his first in a decade, PM Modi proceeded to Croatia, marking the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Balkan nation.Although Trump left the G7 Summit early, he and PM Modi held a 35-minute phone call at Trump's request, in place of their planned in-person meeting on the summit sidelines.During the call, PM Modi invited President Trump to India for the next Quad summit, an invitation that Trump accepted. "While accepting the invitation, President Trump said that he is excited to come to India," Misri added.The two leaders also discussed India’s recent counterterrorism actions under Operation Sindoor. Trump expressed strong support for India’s efforts to combat terrorism.