New Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has responded warmly to recent comments made by US President Donald Trump, describing the India–US relationship as a “special” bond. The exchange comes against the backdrop of escalating trade tensions triggered by Washington’s tariff measures.
President Trump, who had earlier criticised India over its trade practices and ties with Russia, struck a conciliatory tone this week, calling Mr. Modi “a great Prime Minister” and “a good friend.” He also said that India and the United States would “always be friends,” signalling a shift from his earlier remarks in which he warned that the US had “lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest China.”
Modi’s response
In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi said he “deeply appreciates and fully reciprocates President Trump’s sentiments and positive assessment of our ties.” He added that the two countries share “a very positive and forward-looking Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership.”
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also welcomed the comments, underlining that the Prime Minister attaches “enormous importance” to the partnership with Washington.
Tariff tensions remain
Despite the warmth in rhetoric, trade disputes remain unresolved. The US recently imposed tariffs of up to 50% on Indian exports, particularly those linked to New Delhi’s crude oil imports from Russia. India has denounced these measures as “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.”
Diplomatic observers note that while Mr. Trump’s softened stance is a positive development, it does not address the core issues at the heart of the dispute. For India, protecting its economic and strategic autonomy remains central, even as it seeks to preserve stable relations with Washington.
Strategic balancing
The episode underscores India’s broader foreign policy approach of maintaining multi-aligned partnerships. While reaffirming its ties with the US, New Delhi has continued engagement with Moscow and Beijing, citing the need for strategic flexibility in a shifting global order.
At the same time, the reaffirmed friendship with Washington is seen as vital for India’s interests in defence cooperation, technology partnerships, and regional security. Analysts say the latest exchange of statements could mark a tactical reset in tone, but the underlying policy disagreements are unlikely to disappear quickly.
Conclusion
Mr. Modi’s gracious response to Mr. Trump’s remarks highlights India’s intent to manage diplomatic strains without compromising its sovereign choices. For both nations, the immediate task lies in bridging trade differences while keeping the strategic partnership on track. The coming months will determine whether warm words can translate into substantive policy progress.