PRIME Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday called Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot a “friend”, thanking him for attending the launch here of a Vande Bharat Express even when he is going through a “political tussle” in the State. Flagging off the State’s first Vande Bharat train virtually, the Prime Minister thanked Gehlot for being present at the event in Jaipur. “I express my special gratitude to Gehlot ji. During these days of political struggle when he is going through several crises, he took out the time for development work and participated in a railway programme. I welcome him,” Modi said.

Earlier, during his address at the launch event, Gehlot raised demands related to the railways in Rajasthan, and mentioned that for the first time since independence, the Union Railway Minister is from the State. Describing the launch of the Vande Bharat Express as a ‘big gift’ for Rajasthan, Gehlot said, the State will become an economic leader in the country if rail facilities are increased here.

Modi said, “The work that should have been done immediately after independence had not been done till now. But you have so much faith in me that you have given me that task today.” The Prime Minister told Gehlot that his trust in him gives strength to their “friendship”. “I thank you for the trust you have in this friendship,” he told the Congress leader.