London: US President Donald Trump has made a significant statement regarding India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to the United Kingdom, reaffirming his personal closeness to Modi and expressing optimism about bilateral ties.
Despite recent trade tensions, Trump’s remarks have sparked hopes of a diplomatic reset between the two nations.
Speaking to the media in London, Trump said, “I am very close to India and Prime Minister Modi. We share a good friendship.” He also revealed that he had recently spoken to Modi and extended birthday wishes to him, underscoring the warmth in their personal relationship.
This statement comes at a time when India-US relations have been strained due to Trump’s decision to impose a 50% tariff on Indian imports, citing India’s continued oil trade with Russia. The move had raised concerns about a potential diplomatic fallout. However, Trump clarified, “Just because countries like India and others are buying oil from Russia doesn’t mean we are against them. I’ve always said, and I still say, I’m close to India.”
Standing alongside UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump also addressed broader geopolitical issues, including China’s trade practices and Russia’s oil diplomacy. He suggested that if oil prices fall, Russia would be open to negotiations, indicating a pragmatic approach to global energy politics.
In a positive development, India’s Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran hinted that the US may roll back some of the tariffs after November 30, potentially easing trade tensions. If implemented, this could pave the way for renewed cooperation and economic engagement between the two countries.
Trump’s remarks have been interpreted as a strategic shift aimed at maintaining strong ties with India despite policy disagreements. His emphasis on friendship with Modi and acknowledgement of India’s global role suggest that the US president continues to view India as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific region.
The statement also comes amid growing global scrutiny of India’s energy ties with Russia. While the US has repeatedly urged India to reconsider its oil imports from Moscow, New Delhi has maintained its stance, citing national interest and energy security.
As the world watches the evolving dynamics between two of the largest democracies, Trump’s latest comments offer a glimpse of hope for a more balanced and constructive relationship. Whether this leads to a formal easing of trade restrictions remains to be seen, but the tone has certainly shifted towards reconciliation.