New Delhi: President Donald Trump confirmed fresh negotiations with India to resolve trade barriers, calling PM Modi a “very good friend” while expressing mild displeasure at current policies.
US and India to restart trade negotiations
New Delhi: United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday announced that Washington and New Delhi will resume negotiations to address what he termed as “trade barriers” between the two countries.
In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote, “I am pleased to announce that India and the United States of America are continuing negotiations to address the Trade Barriers between our two Nations. I look forward to speaking with my very good friend, Prime Minister Modi, in the upcoming weeks. I feel certain that there will be no difficulty in coming to a successful conclusion for both of our Great Countries!”
The announcement comes against the backdrop of growing friction after the US imposed a 50 per cent tariff on Indian goods, including an additional 25 per cent penalty on purchases of Russian oil.
“Very special relationship” with India
Despite the ongoing trade tensions, Trump struck a positive note on bilateral ties. Addressing reporters at the White House earlier this week, he described India-US relations as a “very special relationship” and reaffirmed his personal equation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
When asked by ANI if he was prepared to “reset” relations with India, Trump replied: “I always will. I’ll always be friends with (PM) Modi. He’s a great Prime Minister. I’ll always be friends, but I just don’t like what he is doing at this particular moment. But India and the United States have a very special relationship. There is nothing to worry about. We just have moments on occasion.”
His remarks highlighted both the enduring friendship and occasional irritants in ties, particularly over trade and energy purchases.
Responding to concerns on China and Russia
The US President also responded to concerns raised on his Truth Social post, where he had warned about the possibility of the US “losing India and Russia to China.” Clarifying his position, Trump said he does not believe such a realignment has taken place.
Observers note that Washington has been closely watching New Delhi’s growing engagement with Moscow, especially in energy trade, even as India deepens strategic cooperation with the US in defence, technology, and Indo-Pacific security.
Modi reciprocates Trump’s remarks
Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded warmly to Trump’s public comments, reiterating his commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Modi wrote: “Deeply appreciate and fully reciprocate President Trump’s sentiments and positive assessment of our ties. India and the US have a very positive and forward-looking Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership.”
The Prime Minister emphasised that the relationship extends well beyond trade, spanning defence, technology, and global strategic cooperation.
Trade talks to shape next phase of ties
The revival of trade talks is expected to be closely watched in both capitals, as the negotiations will not only decide tariff outcomes but also shape the trajectory of India-US relations in the coming years.
Both sides have reaffirmed their long-term commitment to the partnership, but differences over tariffs, energy purchases, and market access remain sticking points. Trump’s repeated assurances of friendship with Modi, alongside his criticism of some Indian policies, reflect the delicate balance both nations must navigate in pursuit of mutual gains