HOUSTON – Houston’s India- American community welcomed India Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday morning inside NRG stadium.
Modi’s visit reeled more than 50,000 Indian-Americans from across the nation.
“It's my honor and privilege to be welcomed here in this magnificent stadium and magnificent country,” Modi said. Supporters praised Modi's achievements since he took office in 2014.
PHOTOS: 'Howdy Modi' event in Houston
HOUSTON, TX - SEPTEMBER 22: Indian Prime Minster Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump leave the stage at NRG Stadium after a rally on September 22, 2019 in Houston, Texas. The rally was expected to draw tens of thousands of Indian-Americans and comes ahead of Modi's trip to New York for the United Nations General Assembly. (Photo by Sergio Flores/Getty Images)
“He has done so much to bring (the) Indian economy up and help a lot of poor people come up in life,” said a supporter.
Modi's stressed his achievements as he addressed his supporters in the country's popular language. Most of his speech was made alongside President DonaldTrump who announced last week he would be joining the prime minister in Houston.
“I have also come to express my gratitude to 4 million amazing Indian-Americans across our country,” Trump said.
Both leaders revealed their upcoming plans to strengthen their economic ties, signing an agreement that would allow the U.S. to export natural gas at a low cost to India. The trade would create American jobs, they said.
In addition to the economy, the president spoke of strengthening military ties and border security.
“Border security is vital to (the) United States; border security is vital to India,” Trump said.