Amid rising tariffs and a freeze in trade talks, a rare positive exchange between India and the US has drawn attention. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed that he “appreciates and fully reciprocates” US President Donald Trump’s comments on their personal relationship, reflecting a stance of measured diplomacy during a period of heightened tensions. PM Modi’s response comes after months of strain, including a 50% US tariff on Indian goods and reports of missed calls from Trump. While Modi stops short of calling Trump a friend, the exchange suggests that efforts to improve the India-US special relationship may be underway.
#WATCH | Washington DC | Responding to ANI’s question on resetting relations with India, US President Donald Trump says, “I always will, I will always be friends with Modi, he is a great Prime Minister, he is great… I just don’t like what he is doing at this particular moment,… pic.twitter.com/gzMQZfzSor
— ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2025
PM Modi Response
PM Modi emphasised the ongoing Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership between India and the US. Experts say that despite trade issues and geopolitical differences, India is showing a willingness to keep communication open. His careful response reflects a strategy to maintain cooperation while protecting national interests and gradually strengthening the India-US relationship.
Deeply appreciate and fully reciprocate President Trump’s sentiments and positive assessment of our ties.
India and the US have a very positive and forward-looking Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership.@realDonaldTrump @POTUS https://t.co/4hLo9wBpeF
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 6, 2025
US-India ties
Trump’s statements have alternated between praising Modi and criticising India’s ties with China and Russia. PM Modi responded without escalating tensions, focusing on dialogue. The exchange shows that although challenges remain, both countries are keeping communication channels open to support US-India ties while safeguarding strategic and economic priorities.
