We should welcome President Trump’s attendance at an upcoming Houston rally by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It might seem silly, but this rally will serve real foreign policy interests.

On Sept. 22, the “Howdy! Modi” event will include up to 50,000 Indian-American Modi supporters. The rally is designed to bolster India’s influence in American politics and illustrate the growing closeness of the U.S.-India relationship. And the Indian government is very glad that Trump will attend the rally. Modi tweeted as much on Monday, welcoming the “special gesture of President Trump to join us in Houston highlights the strength of the relationship and recognition of the contribution of the Indian community to American society and economy.”