Did Trump Wish PM Modi on His 75th Birthday Amid Trade Talks?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Trump's call to Modi highlights the personal relationship between the leaders.
- Both nations are committed to strengthening trade relations.
- The recent talks are described as positive and forward-looking.
- Modi's confidence reflects optimism for future negotiations.
- Both sides aim for an early conclusion of a mutually beneficial agreement.
Washington, Sep 16 (NationPress) In their first phone call in several months, US President Donald Trump reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday to convey his best wishes on the occasion of the PM's 75th birthday.
In a post on X, PM Modi referred to Trump as his “friend” and expressed gratitude for the kind wishes.
“Thank you, my friend, President Trump, for your phone call and warm greetings on my 75th birthday. Like you, I am also fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights. We support your initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict,” PM Modi stated.
The call coincided with discussions held in Delhi between US Assistant Trade Representative for South and Central Asia Brendan Lynch and India’s chief trade negotiator, Rajesh Agrawal, Special Secretary at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Both parties characterized the discussions as “positive.”
A statement from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry described the talks as “positive and forward looking,” covering multiple aspects of the trade agreement. It noted that both sides “decided to intensify efforts” for an early conclusion of a mutually beneficial trade deal.
This call follows President Trump's recent announcement regarding the resumption of trade talks with India.
“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,” he wrote on Truth Social on September 9.
“I am confident that we will reach a successful conclusion for both of our Great Countries,” he added.
Trump also referred to PM Modi as a “very good friend” and mentioned that he looked forward to further discussions in the upcoming weeks.
In response to Trump's comments, PM Modi affirmed the strength of the India-US relationship and expressed optimism regarding the ongoing trade talks.
“India and the US are close friends and natural partners. I am confident that our trade negotiations will unlock the limitless potential of the India-US partnership,” PM Modi stated.
Sergio Gor, President Trump’s nominee for US Ambassador to India, also labeled New Delhi a “strategic partner” during his Senate confirmation hearing last week and vowed to enhance defense and economic ties with India.
Gor disclosed that India and the US are nearing a trade agreement.
“We're actively negotiating with the Indians right now. We're not that far apart on a deal. In fact, they're negotiating down to the specifics of the agreement,” he commented.