US President Donald Trump (L) and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi react to crowds in Ahmedabad, India, February 24, 2020 (Photo by AFP)

US President Donald Trump has arrived in India on his first official visit to the country amid strained relations between Washington and New Delhi over a trade dispute.

Trump landed in the western city of Ahmedabad, the hometown of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday on a two-day trip which will focus on the deepening of bilateral ties.

The US president left Washington on Sunday, predicting that many millions would greet him on his visit with Modi.

Thousands of people lining the streets, including a parade of hundreds of dancers and musicians in colorful traditional dress, welcomed Trump with over 100,000 later waiting for him in the world’s largest cricket stadium.

Half a dozen people said Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party had offered them 200 Indian rupees ($4.21) each to be present at Trump’s rally, according to local media.

His visit comes following days of protests in the country over a new citizenship law which offers a path to Indian citizenship for religious minorities in neighboring countries, but excludes Muslims.

On Monday, Indian police resorted to tear gas and smoke grenades to disperse thousands of protesters in New Delhi. Protesters have been camping out continuously in several parts of the capital over the last two months.

Trump is expected to bring up the issue of religious freedom with Modi after a banquet dinner.

In his speech, he talked about Washington’s plan to increase military sales to India that include equipment, drones, helicopters and missile systems.

He also said he was interested in expanding space cooperation between the US and India.

The president went on to say he was working with Modi on a trade agreement, noting both countries were at the early stages of reaching an incredible trade deal.

His remarks come after tensions between the two countries have escalated ever since his administration imposed tariffs on steel and aluminium from India.

SOURCE: PRESS TV