Prime Minister Narendra Modi has welcomed former US President Donald Trump conciliatory remarks, describing them as a “step forward” after weeks of tense exchanges between New Delhi and Washington.
In a statement, Modi said he “deeply appreciates and fully reciprocates” Trump sentiments, adding that India and the US share a forward-looking Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership.
First Positive Exchange in Months
This marks the first encouraging signal in months following strained ties between the two nations. Relations hit a low after Trump imposed 50% tariffs on Indian exports, and reports emerged that Modi had declined several calls from the former US President.
Only a day earlier, Trump had accused the US of “losing India to the deepest, darkest China.” But his tone shifted when he emphasized his “friendship” with Modi and highlighted the importance of the bilateral relationship.
PM Modi Cautious Response
While welcoming Trump softer tone, Modi refrained from directly calling Trump a “friend.” Analysts say this measured response shows that New Delhi is keeping the door open for dialogue while staying cautious until tariff and trade disputes are resolved.
Trump Mixed Messaging
The developments follow a week of contradictory statements from Trump:
- On Friday, he criticized India for Modi participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China, where he appeared alongside Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin.
- Sharing images from the summit, Trump wrote: “Looks like we have lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest China. May they have a long and prosperous future together!”
- But just hours later, Trump softened his tone, describing Modi as a “great Prime Minister” and reaffirming that India–US ties remain special.
Key Issues Testing India–US Partnership
Despite this positive exchange, several major issues continue to strain the relationship:
- High US tariffs on Indian exports.
- India purchase of Russian oil, opposed by Washington.
- A stalled trade deal, with disputes over agriculture and dairy market access.
- Past criticism from US officials, including branding India the “Kremlin laundromat.”
Outlook for India–US Relations
Diplomats suggest that both sides remain committed to maintaining ties, given the strategic importance of the partnership in countering global challenges. Modi diplomatic restraint, combined with Trump eventual climbdown, indicates that the relationship is too vital to be derailed completely.
For now, the path ahead will depend on:
- Trade negotiations and tariff rollbacks.
- Geopolitical coordination on Russia and China.
- Rebuilding trust through consistent diplomatic engagement.
The latest exchange, however, offers a glimmer of hope for a reset in India–US ties after months of strain.
