Is Trump Resuming Trade Talks with India and Calling PM Modi a 'Very Good Friend'?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Resumption of trade negotiations between the US and India.
- Trump's positive remarks about PM Modi.
- Strengthening the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.
- Implications of recent tariff hikes on bilateral trade.
- Importance of ongoing diplomatic engagement.
Washington, Sep 10 (NationPress) In a pivotal move aimed at reducing tensions, US President Donald Trump declared that his administration has resumed trade discussions with India.
"I am excited to share that India and the United States are actively continuing negotiations to tackle the trade barriers between our nations," he announced on Truth Social.
On Tuesday, Trump referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "very good friend" and expressed his eagerness to converse with him "in the coming weeks."
"I am confident there will be no obstacles in reaching a successful agreement that benefits both of our great nations," he added.
This announcement follows a recent shift toward a more conciliatory tone from the US.
At a White House briefing last Friday, Trump stated, "I’ll always maintain a friendship with Prime Minister Modi" and praised him as a "great Prime Minister."
"India and the United States share a unique relationship. There’s nothing to be concerned about," Trump emphasized.
Shortly after, PM Modi reciprocated on Saturday, expressing his gratitude and full agreement with President Trump's views.
"I deeply value and fully align with President Trump's positive evaluation of our relationship. The partnership between India and the US is both comprehensive and forward-looking," PM Modi posted on X.
On Monday, Indian Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra, also met with US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker.
Ambassador Kwatra shared a photo from the meeting on Tuesday and mentioned having a "productive discussion" with Hooker.
"I echoed our leaders' sentiments. Both sides remain engaged through ongoing bilateral and Quad initiatives, reflecting the forward-looking India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership," he noted.
On August 27, Trump had imposed a 50 percent tariff on Indian imports to the US, which doubled the initial 25 percent levy due to India's continued purchase of Russian oil amid the Ukraine conflict.