Donald Trump will officially assume the office of the 47th President of the United States on January 20, marking the beginning of his second term in the White House. The historic swearing-in ceremony is set to attract significant global attention, with prominent leaders from across the world expected to attend. While Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele have confirmed their participation, the presence of India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains unconfirmed, fueling speculation.
What to Expect on January 20
The inauguration will commence at noon Eastern Time (10:30 PM IST) at the US Capitol in Washington, DC. The ceremony will include Trump’s oath of office, along with that of other key officials. Traditionally, inaugural ceremonies in the U.S. are grand displays of democracy, featuring parades, speeches, and musical performances.
Preparations for the event are in full swing. Security has been heightened, with the Secret Service, National Guard, and local law enforcement coordinating to ensure the safety of attendees. Sources close to the organizing committee suggest that the ceremony will strike a balance between solemn tradition and celebration, reflecting the priorities of the incoming administration.
Giorgia Meloni: A Key Ally for Trump
Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has been an outspoken supporter of Donald Trump, aligning closely with his political ideology. On January 5, she made a surprise visit to Mar-a-Lago, where she reportedly discussed bilateral ties and strategic cooperation with the President-elect.
Meloni’s presence at the inauguration signals a strengthening bond between the U.S. and Italy, particularly on issues of trade, defense, and migration policies. Her visit underscores the importance of Europe-U.S. collaboration in navigating current global challenges, including economic recovery and geopolitical tensions.
Her confirmation as an attendee has drawn significant media attention in both nations, hinting at a pivotal role for Italy in Trump’s foreign policy agenda.
Nayib Bukele: A Familiar Face
El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele has also confirmed his attendance. Bukele shares a unique rapport with the Trump family, highlighted by Trump Jr.’s presence at Bukele’s second-term inauguration. Bukele’s swift congratulations to Trump after his election victory underscored his strong support.
Bukele’s attendance might indicate closer U.S.-El Salvador relations under Trump’s administration. Observers speculate that discussions on economic collaboration, migration policies, and regional stability could feature prominently in their upcoming engagements.
Interestingly, Bukele’s invitation has sparked conversations about the influence of smaller nations in shaping hemispheric diplomacy. His proactive engagement with Trump may serve as a blueprint for other leaders in Latin America.
Will Modi Join the List?
One of the biggest questions lingering is whether Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the ceremony. Despite their strong diplomatic ties, there has been no official confirmation from New Delhi regarding Modi’s plans.
Sources suggest that logistical challenges and domestic priorities could play a role in shaping Modi’s decision. However, his presence would undoubtedly signal a renewed commitment to the U.S.-India strategic partnership, especially in areas like technology, defense, and climate action.
If Modi does attend, his participation would likely feature a bilateral meeting with Trump, further bolstering the Quad alliance and reinforcing their shared vision for the Indo-Pacific region.
A Glimpse at Other Expected Attendees
While Meloni and Bukele have taken the spotlight, several other global leaders and diplomats are expected to attend:
- UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak: Though unconfirmed, Sunak’s attendance would mark a crucial moment for U.S.-UK relations post-Brexit.
- Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida: A likely attendee, given Japan’s close security ties with the U.S.
- French President Emmanuel Macron: Known for his dynamic rapport with world leaders, Macron’s presence could signify unity amidst global turbulence.
The final guest list will reveal much about Trump’s international priorities and alliances moving forward.
A Ceremony to Watch
Inaugurations are more than ceremonial—they reflect the tone of an administration and its vision for the future. Trump’s return to power promises policy shifts and international realignments, making this event critical for observers worldwide.
The swearing-in is expected to draw large crowds, both in-person and online. With tensions high and global interest peaked, all eyes will be on Washington on January 20.
