US President Says Trade Deal Is “Very Close,” Confirms Plans to Visit India in Future
Evian-les-Bains, France (Economy India): US President Donald Trump on Wednesday described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as one of the “toughest negotiators” as the two leaders held wide-ranging talks on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Evian-les-Bains, France.
The high-profile meeting focused on advancing the proposed India-US bilateral trade agreement, strengthening defence and security cooperation, and discussing key geopolitical developments, including the ongoing crisis in West Asia.
Responding to questions from reporters on the status of the proposed trade pact, Trump indicated that negotiations were nearing completion.
“We are very close,” Trump said, adding, “He is a very tough negotiator. One of the toughest.”
In his characteristic style, the US President praised Modi’s leadership and negotiating abilities, saying the Indian Prime Minister combines a warm public persona with a firm approach at the negotiating table.
Trump also recalled the landmark “Howdy, Modi!” event held in Houston, Texas, in 2019, which symbolised the growing strategic partnership between the two countries.
As Prime Minister Modi referenced the “Namaste Trump” event hosted in Ahmedabad in 2020, Trump said he planned to visit India in the future.
“We will be going to India sometime in the future,” the US President said.
Trade Deal Gains Momentum
The meeting comes amid ongoing negotiations aimed at finalising a comprehensive bilateral trade agreement between India and the United States.
Officials from both sides have been working to resolve outstanding issues related to market access, tariffs, digital trade, supply chains and investment facilitation.
A successful agreement is expected to boost bilateral trade, deepen economic engagement and create new opportunities across sectors such as manufacturing, technology, clean energy and critical minerals.
Strategic Partnership Expands
India and the United States have significantly expanded cooperation in recent years across multiple domains, including:
- Defence and security
- Advanced technologies
- Semiconductor manufacturing
- Artificial intelligence
- Clean energy
- Supply chain resilience
- Space cooperation
Analysts believe the Modi-Trump meeting signals continued momentum in the India-US strategic partnership despite evolving global challenges.
Global Issues on the Agenda
Apart from bilateral matters, the two leaders exchanged views on regional and global developments, including the security situation in West Asia and other geopolitical challenges.
The discussions underscored the growing convergence between New Delhi and Washington on issues related to global stability, economic resilience and strategic cooperation.
The meeting is being closely watched by businesses and investors, particularly for signals on the timeline and scope of the proposed trade agreement.
(Economy India)
