US President Donald Trump said Washington and New Delhi are close to completing a long-awaited trade agreement. His comments came after talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Group of Seven summit in France.
Trump Calls Modi a Tough Negotiator
Trump described Modi as one of the toughest negotiators he has dealt with. Although he referred to the Indian prime minister as a longtime friend, he stressed that reaching an agreement with him has not been easy.
According to Trump, Modi may appear calm and friendly, but he takes a firm position during negotiations.
The US president also said he plans to visit India in the future. However, he did not announce a specific date for the trip.
US and India Seek to Repair Relations
The meeting was the first face-to-face discussion between Trump and Modi since the Indian prime minister visited the White House early last year.
Both countries have recently worked to improve relations following tensions involving US tariffs, Pakistan and the war in Iran.
Their latest talks also took place shortly after a US attack on Indian-crewed vessels near the Gulf of Oman. At least three sailors were reportedly killed, prompting criticism from India.
The ships were targeted during a US blockade of vessels travelling to and from Iranian ports.
Modi Raises Concerns Over Indian Seafarers
During a press briefing with Trump, Modi stressed the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation.
He noted that thousands of Indian seafarers work across global maritime trade routes. Therefore, he argued that protecting their safety should remain a priority.
Modi also expressed confidence that the security of sailors would receive greater attention under a potential US-Iran peace agreement.
Trump Reaffirms US Defence Support for India
When asked about defence cooperation between the two countries, Trump described the US-India relationship as strong.
He said Washington would support India if the country came under attack. Trump also offered direct personal support to Modi, although he suggested that the same commitment might not automatically apply under a future Indian leader.
Interim US-India Trade Deal Moves Forward
The United States and India are currently trying to finalise an interim trade agreement first reached in February.
The deal was expected to be signed in March. However, negotiations were delayed after the US Supreme Court struck down Trump’s reciprocal tariff policy.
Under the proposed agreement, Indian exports to the United States would face an 18% tariff. This would be significantly lower than the 50% rate announced last year.
Trade Negotiators Continue Discussions
Indian and US trade officials have held two rounds of talks since March.
The negotiations included a meeting in Washington in April, followed by four days of discussions in New Delhi this month.
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is also expected to travel to India later this month. His visit could help move the US-India trade deal closer to completion.
