New Delhi, Feb 23 (IANS): Questioning the interest of the government on the much-hyped Trump visit, the Congress has raised the issue of trade deal and H1B visas which have been reduced by the US administration.

Congress spokesperson Jaiveer Shergill said, "The entire nation has been hearing what potential issues US President Donald Trump might raise with Indian government on his upcoming visit. But nobody has exactly heard what issues, questions and concerns PM Modi might highlight to President Trump."

"The Prime Minister, who claims to be a very close friend of the US President, needs to ask Trump that why is he so averse to India? Why is there no trade deal?" said Supriya Shrinate, another spokesperson of the party.

Raising the demand of H1B visa, Sanjay Jha said, "The denial rate of H1B visas has risen from 6 per cent up to 24 per cent over the last couple of years. It's time we ask these tough questions and don't make Mr Trump's visit a promotional stunt."

The Congress had earlier cautioned the government that 'Namaste Trump' event should not become Trump's election campaign for the Indian diaspora.

"We would like to see some outcome of this visit, especially in the national interest, rather than becoming a link to the re-election campaign of the US President," said senior Congress leader Anand Sharma.

The Congress said the three things that should be kept in mind are the sovereignty, self-respect and national interest of country. A Congress leader said such tours should be serious and not be limited to photo-ops.

US President Donald Trump is visiting India on February 24 and 25.