'Normal practice': Govt on Sergio Gor's 'no questions' remark at PM Modi-Trump meet

The Indian government clarified on Monday that discussions surrounding public appearances for leaders are a "normal practice," following remarks made by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor during the Economic Times World Leaders Forum. Gor had stated that India had specifically requested the US administration not to allow questions from the media during the bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 summit in France.

However, Gor noted that while Trump initially agreed to the request, he later opened the floor to reporters, transforming the session into a 45-minute press conference with PM Modi present. Gor recounted having a brief conversation with Trump, informing him of India's preference for no questions. The meeting, which took place days after an attack by the US Navy on an Indian vessel, saw both leaders discuss maritime safety and tensions in West Asia affecting global energy supplies.