(CNA New Delhi, 20th, Comprehensive Foreign Report) In the Indian capital of New Delhi, the backs of auto-rickshaws are often used as mobile billboards, but a recent face catching the eye of some commuters has been unexpected: a portrait of U.S. President Donald Trump and the slogan "Happy Birthday, America!" According to the Associated Press, in recent weeks, large-scale photos of Donald Trump and the Statue of Liberty have appeared on the backs of about 100 auto-rickshaws across New Delhi. In a city where thousands of rickshaw backs frequently advertise obscure fertility clinics, English tutoring classes, and herbal remedies, this American ad is particularly eye-catching. The U.S. Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, announced this unusual promotional campaign last month, part of a series of actions by the United States to commemorate its 250th anniversary of independence, with related celebrations, cultural events, and public relations plans to be held in multiple countries. The U.S. Embassy in India wrote in a social media post last month announcing the plan: "Liberty is on the move... literally!" The embassy also urged the people of New Delhi to hail these rickshaws, stating, "Flag 'em down if you see 'em — they'll be zipping all over Delhi soon." Washington is hoping to stabilize U.S.-India relations after they deteriorated due to Trump's imposition of tariffs on several Indian goods. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is also expected to visit New Delhi this weekend. However, for many of the auto-rickshaw drivers, this campaign doesn't mean much. One driver said that when the organizers approached him, he initially refused, but changed his mind in exchange for a pack of tea. Another driver said he agreed mainly because the canopy of his rickshaw was torn and he needed something to cover it. When asked if he understood the content of the ad, the driver replied, "I know he is Trump, but I don't know much else." (Translator: Yang Chao-yen)
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- Source: CNA (Central News Agency)
- Category: 國際