Modi-Trump Meeting Draws Optimism From Business, Community Leaders on India-U.S. Ties
Washington — Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France has raised optimism among business and community leaders about the future of India-U.S. relations, particularly on trade, defense and regional security.
Mukesh Aghi, president of the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum, said the meeting between the two leaders “signalled a pathway to progress.”
“The overarching tone remains positive that both Washington and New Delhi are channelling their best efforts to negotiate the ‘final touches’ of the trade deal which has undergone multiple rounds of negotiations at the ministerial and bureaucratic level for over a year now,” Aghi said.
Aghi also said Trump’s agreement to visit India in the near future was “a positive sign after the Quad meeting in New Delhi was restricted to the Foreign Minister’s level.”
Speaking alongside Modi, Trump emphasized the strength of his relationship with the Prime Minister and the growing economic partnership between the two countries.
“He’s spending a lot of money in the United States, so we appreciate that – jobs. I just want to say he’s been my friend for a long time now, and we’ve always had a great relationship,” Trump said.
Business leaders also pointed to defense cooperation as a major area of focus following the meeting.
“Defence remains a key issue as well, given the priorities of the Indo-Pacific for both the US and India,” Aghi said.
He said both countries continue to emphasize maritime security and freedom of navigation.
“Both democracies underscore freedom of navigation, after the unfortunate attack on Indian sailors in the Gulf of Oman,” he said.
Trump also drew attention for his remarks about U.S. support for India under Modi’s leadership.
“If anybody attacks that man, we’re going to be there. Now if there’s a new leader, I’m not sure about it,” Trump said.
“If they’re attacked and he’s the leader, we’re going to be there to help,” he added.
Jasdip Singh Jassee of Sikhs of America welcomed the tone of the meeting, saying Trump’s remarks reflected the strength of the India-U.S. partnership and would be appreciated by many Indian Americans who support close ties between the two democracies.
“President Trump’s remarks about Prime Minister Modi underscore the personal trust and friendship that have helped advance cooperation between the two democracies. His comments on standing with India in times of need will be welcomed by many Indian Americans and members of the Sikh community who value a strong and stable partnership between the two nations,” Jassee said.
“We are encouraged by the positive momentum towards a trade agreement, stronger defence cooperation and enhanced engagement in the Indo-Pacific. Progress on these issues will benefit both countries and create new opportunities for economic growth and innovation,” Jassee said. (Source: IANS)
