WASHINGTON: The first rule for lawmakers and staff aides meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his trip to Washington?
No selfies.
That was the advice from a House protocol expert in advance of Modi's visit, which included a speech to a joint meeting of Congress on Wednesday. Also, don't give him anything made out of leather.
"First and foremost — NO SELFIES!! Taking selfies with a visiting Head of State is incredibly inappropriate and tactless," said the message from House Foreign Affairs Committee protocol aide Elizabeth Heng. "Make sure your boss does not do this."
And here's another helpful tip: "As a general practice, do not attempt to shake a head of state's hand unless they extend their hand first."
And finally, a reminder that it's not cool "to give a cattle product to a practicing Hindu."
Heng's missive was posted to Twitter by reporter Scott Wong of The Hill.