India has extended an invitation to the United States President Donald Trump to be the chief guest on Republic Day 2019. However, US Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said no decision has been taken on the matter yet.
“I know that the invitation has been extended, but I do not believe that a final decision has been made,” said Sanders while addressing to the media over many questions regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s invitation to President Trump.
However, Sanders confirmed that US Secretary of State – Mike Pompeo and US Secretary of Defense – James N. Mattis would be visiting India next month, to start a “dialogue, process and a potential discussion for a presidential visit later in the year.”
Also read: PM Modi to hold his first meeting with US President Donald Trump
Every year, the Indian government invites a ‘head of a country’ to be the special guest on the Republic Day, which is marked by a parade showcasing the military power and cultural diversity of the country.
Former US President Barack Obama has also been part of the celebrations and visited India in 2015 as the chief guest of the 65th Republic Day event.
