Trump says US, India ‘very close’ to trade deal, calls PM Modi ‘tough negotiator’ | Today’s news
US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi met face-to-face for the first time in 16 months on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, as the two sides sought to restore relations strained by trade disputes.
The leaders met to discuss a wide range of issues, including trade negotiations, regional security, maritime stability, energy cooperation and developments in West Asia.
The meeting began with a warm exchange of views between the two leaders, who have long maintained a close personal relationship despite recent frictions in bilateral relations.
“Very close” to finalizing a trade deal
Quick answers to key questions
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The US and India are reportedly very close to finalizing a trade deal after months of negotiations, with both countries expressing optimism about reaching a breakthrough.
Trump called PM Modi a “tough negotiator” to highlight his political acumen and effectiveness in advancing India’s interests during trade discussions.
The US and India are engaged in discussions to finalize an interim trade pact aimed at expanding market access and limiting tariff disputes.
Trump emphasized that as long as Prime Minister Modi is in charge, the US will continue to support India and strengthen personal and political ties between their two nations.
Yes, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is expected to visit India soon to advance negotiations related to the proposed interim trade agreement.
A key point of discussion was the proposed trade agreement between India and the US, which the two countries have been negotiating for months.
Trump expressed optimism about progress, saying Washington and New Delhi were nearing a breakthrough.
“We’ve been there for a while and he’s a very tough negotiator, actually one of the toughest,” Trump said when asked about the status of the talks.
He added: “We are very close” to a trade deal.
The remarks come as negotiators from both countries continue discussions on an interim trade pact aimed at expanding market access and limiting tariff-related disputes.
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is expected to visit India later this month to advance negotiations.
Trump took the opportunity to once again praise Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and negotiating skills.
“He’s been a friend of mine for a long time,” Trump said.
The American president then offered a characteristically colorful description of the Indian prime minister.
“He looks like an angel, but he’s actually as tough as a killer.
The comments echoed earlier remarks by Trump during the summit, when he described Modi as “calm, cool and a total killer”.
India’s growing role in West Asia
Trump also highlighted India’s growing geopolitical influence, particularly in West Asia, where tensions have heightened following the ongoing Iran-US conflict.
“India plays a big role in West Asia if Prime Minister Modi is the leader,” Trump said.
The remarks came after Modi stressed the need for peace, stability and uninterrupted maritime trade routes, especially through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
Trump praises Indian investment in the US
The US President also acknowledged India’s growing economic footprint in the United States and praised Prime Minister Modi for strengthening trade ties between the two countries.
“Prime Minister Modi is building a lot in the United States. He’s spending a lot of money in the U.S.,” Trump said.
The statement reflected Washington’s interest in attracting greater Indian investment while expanding bilateral trade.
Efforts to restore bilateral relations
The meeting marked the last effort by the two governments to stabilize relations after a period of tension.
Since January, Washington and New Delhi have stepped up diplomatic cooperation, including a visit to India by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and ongoing discussions with officials from both countries.
The interaction of leaders at the G7 summit was widely seen as an attempt to overcome recent differences and refocus on common strategic interests.
Trade, security and regional stability on the agenda
In addition to trade, the talks covered defense cooperation, maritime security, energy ties and developments in West Asia.
PM Modi reportedly praised Trump’s efforts to restore peace in the region and stressed the importance of ensuring the free flow of global trade through key shipping lanes.
Read also | Trump backs PM Modi at G7: ‘If anyone attacks this man, I’ll be there for him’
