Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggested that he had not discussed with U.S. President Donald Trump, the U.S. charges against billionaire industrialist Gautam Adani, who is perceived as close to Mr Modi. The Prime Minister said that such personal issues were not raised when world leaders met.
“Every Indian is family to me. The other thing is, the leaders of countries do not meet to discuss such personal matters,” Mr Modi said, animatedly.
Thursday’s joint press conference, where the question was asked of Mr. Modi, is the second time the Prime Minister, who is perceived to keep away from unscripted interviews, has participated at a press conference at the White House (the first time was in 2023 at a joint press appearance with former U.S. President Joe Biden).
On Tuesday, Mr. Trump had paused the Foreign Practices Corruption Act, 1976 for six months. The law prohibits a U.S. company or person bribing foreign governments, political parties and others to secure business. In November last year, the U.S. announced charges against associates of Mr. Adani for conspiracy to violate this law and Mr. Adani was also charged, but on other counts. The case pertains to an alleged bribery scheme involving more than $250 million between 2020 and 2024. Mr. Trump’s suspension of the law may mean a reprieve for Mr. Adani and his associates.
Published – February 14, 2025 12:21 pm IST