WASHINGTON– President Donald Trump on Thursday underscored the strength of U.S.–India ties, recalling a recent birthday call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and describing their relationship as “very good.”
Speaking alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer before concluding his visit to the United Kingdom, Trump said, “I’m very close to India. I’m very close to the Prime Minister of India. The other day, I wished him a happy birthday. We have a very good relationship. He put out a beautiful statement too.”
The comments came after Trump and Modi spoke on Tuesday, their first phone conversation in several months. Modi, who turned 75, thanked Trump in a post on X, writing: “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-U.S. Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights. We support your initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict.”
Trump later echoed the sentiments on Truth Social, calling the exchange “wonderful” and praising Modi’s leadership. “I wished him a very Happy Birthday! He is doing a tremendous job. Narendra: Thank you for your support on ending the War between Russia and Ukraine!” Trump wrote.
The call coincided with U.S. Assistant Trade Representative for South and Central Asia Brendan Lynch’s talks in New Delhi with India’s chief trade negotiator Rajesh Agrawal. Both sides described the discussions as “positive.”
At the London press conference, Trump also addressed Russia’s war in Ukraine, signaling he would consider stronger action against Moscow if European allies agreed to share the burden. “I’m willing to do other things, but not when the people that I’m fighting for are buying oil from Russia,” Trump said. “If the oil price comes down, very simply, Russia will settle.” (Source: IANS)
