United States President Donald Trump has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as a “great man and a friend,” while indicating that he may visit India next year as discussions between the two nations on trade continue to make progress.
Trump says India-US relations are strong
Speaking to reporters at the White House after announcing new measures to reduce the prices of weight loss drugs, Trump said his recent conversations with PM Modi had been “smooth and positive.” He added that the Indian leader had invited him to visit India, and that the trip could materialise in 2026.
“He (PM Modi) largely stopped buying from Russia. And he is a friend of mine, and we speak. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a great man. He is a friend of mine, and he wants me to go there. We will figure that out, I will go… Prime Minister Modi is a great man and I will be going,” Trump said.
When asked specifically if he planned to visit India next year, Trump replied, “It could be, yes.”
Trade and energy remain central to talks
The statement comes amid ongoing India–US trade negotiations, following Washington’s decision to impose a 50 per cent tariff, including an additional 25 per cent duty, over India’s purchase of Russian crude oil.
Earlier this week, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that discussions were progressing and emphasised President Trump’s commitment to strengthening ties with India.
“The President is positive and feels very strongly about the India–US relationship,” Leavitt said. “A few weeks ago, he spoke to the Prime Minister directly when he celebrated Diwali in the Oval Office with many high-ranking Indian-American officials.”
India reiterates stance on energy security
Trump’s remarks follow his earlier claim that India had significantly reduced its import of Russian oil. During his recent Asia tour, he said New Delhi was “very good” on the issue and that PM Modi had assured him India would curtail its purchases from Moscow.
In response, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated that India’s energy decisions are based solely on national interests and consumer welfare, not external pressure.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “India is a significant importer of oil and gas. It has been our consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario. Our import policies are guided entirely by this objective.”
Strengthening diplomatic engagement
The potential visit, if confirmed, would mark Trump’s first trip to India since his return to the White House. It would also come at a crucial time as both countries look to deepen cooperation on trade, defence, and energy security.
Experts suggest that renewed engagement between Washington and New Delhi could pave the way for fresh agreements on technology transfer, manufacturing, and strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.
While no formal schedule has been announced, officials on both sides are expected to continue consultations in the coming months.