Key Takeaways
- Trump confirms US-India trade talks progressing smoothly
- Potential presidential visit to India in the coming year
- Despite trade tensions, diplomatic engagement continues at multiple levels
US President Donald Trump has signaled positive momentum in US-India trade negotiations while hinting at a potential visit to India next year. Speaking to reporters, Trump described talks with New Delhi as “going smoothly” and praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “a great man” and “a friend.”
Trump’s Positive Assessment
The President revealed that his recent conversations with PM Modi have been “going great” and confirmed he’s considering an invitation to visit India. “Prime Minister Modi is a great man. He is a friend of mine, and we speak and he wants me to go there. We will figure that out, I will go,” Trump told reporters.
He specifically noted that India has “largely stopped buying from Russia,” indicating alignment on strategic matters despite ongoing trade differences.
Ongoing Trade Challenges
The optimistic comments come amid several contentious issues creating friction between the two nations:
- India faces US tariffs as high as 50% on exports
- Proposed $100,000 fee for H1B visas affecting India’s tech sector
- Trump’s criticism of India’s continued Russian crude purchases
Continued Diplomatic Engagement
Despite tensions, diplomatic channels remain active. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal confirmed that “talks are going on very well,” though he noted “many sensitive and serious issues” require time to resolve.
In parallel developments, India’s Ambassador to the US Vinay Mohan Kwatra met with Senator Steve Daines to discuss trade ties, the new 10-year defence framework, and technology collaboration opportunities. Kwatra described their meeting as an “enriching conversation” focused on deepening bilateral relations.
