Trump Calls Modi One of World’s ‘Toughest Leaders’

Washington — U.S. President Donald Trump has described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as one of the world’s toughest leaders, praising his negotiating ability and emphasizing the strength of the relationship between the United States and India.

In an interview with Axios, Trump identified Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping as the world leaders he most admires. He reportedly described Xi as “all business” and Modi as “a very tough cookie.”

Trump made similar remarks during a recent meeting with Modi in Evian, France, on the sidelines of the G7 outreach summit. The talks came as the two countries continued negotiations over a bilateral trade agreement and discussed regional security issues.

Asked how close the United States and India were to completing a trade deal, Trump praised Modi’s skills as a negotiator.

“Very close. We’ve been there for a little while. He’s a very tough negotiator, one of the toughest, actually,” Trump said.

Trump said Modi’s mild public demeanor concealed formidable political instincts.

“So, you look at this man — I’ll give you a lesson — he’s the most beautiful looking man, he looks so nice, he’s like an angel. But actually, he’s as tough as — he’s a killer.”

“He’s as tough as they come, but he looks so good. So, he gets you by surprise,” Trump added.

Trump also linked India’s growing international influence to Modi’s leadership. Asked whether India could help stabilize West Asia following the recent U.S.-Iran understanding, he said the country had an important global role.

“Yeah, I do. I think India plays a big role in everything,” Trump said.

“As long as he’s the leader, India is going to play a big role.”

Trump highlighted his longstanding personal relationship with Modi and sought to reassure Indians concerned about recent U.S. policy decisions.

“He’s been my friend for a long time now and we’ve always had a great relationship,” Trump said.

“As long as I’m President, they have a great friend in the White House,” he added. “I can tell you everyone here, they love India, they have tremendous respect for this man, tremendous.”

Trump also recalled major public events involving the two leaders, including the “Howdy Modi” gathering in Houston and his visit to India during his first presidential term.

Discussing defense ties, Trump described India as a close partner and said relations between the two countries were stronger than ever.

“I think it’s a great relationship,” he said.

“If they were attacked, we would be there to help them.”

Trump concluded the meeting by again emphasizing the closeness of the bilateral relationship.

“India can do anything they want with us. We have the best relationship,” Trump said.

“We cannot be closer. Both him and I and our nations, but it really starts with the two of us.” (Source: IANS)