'Deeply Appreciate And...': PM Modi On Donald Trump Remarks On India-US Ties; Will US Tariff Tensions Ease?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently addressed comments made by US President Donald Trump, who referred to him as a "great Prime Minister" and a "friend." This exchange comes amid ongoing tensions over tariffs between the two nations. PM Modi expressed his gratitude, stating he "deeply appreciates and fully reciprocates" Trump's sentiments.

The backdrop of these remarks is the strained ties following the US decision to impose a 50% tariff on India. Despite this, PM Modi emphasised the strength of the relationship between India and the US. He posted on X, highlighting their "positive and forward-looking Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership."

India-US Relations Amid Tariff Disputes

President Trump, speaking at the Oval Office, reiterated his friendship with PM Modi. He stated, "I always will. I'll always be friends with (PM) Modi. He's a great Prime Minister. I'll always be friends, but I just don't like what he is doing at this particular moment. But India and the United States have a very special relationship."

Trump also addressed concerns about India's oil trade with Russia. He mentioned his disappointment over India's significant oil purchases from Moscow. The US has responded by imposing a 50% tariff on India, which Trump described as "very high." He recalled a recent meeting with PM Modi in the Rose Garden.

Reactions from Indian Officials

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar commented on the situation, praising India-US relations after PM Modi's response to Trump's remarks. Jaishankar noted that PM Modi places significant importance on the partnership with the US.

Jaishankar further elaborated on the personal rapport between PM Modi and President Trump. He stated that despite current tensions, both leaders maintain a good personal equation. However, he refrained from providing additional details about ongoing engagements.

Trade Tensions and Recent Developments

The comments from both leaders follow PM Modi's visit to China for the SCO Summit amidst ongoing trade disputes with Washington. The US has imposed a 25% reciprocal tariff on India along with an additional 25% penalty due to Delhi's Russian oil purchases.

India has labelled these tariffs as "unjustified and unreasonable." Despite these challenges, both nations continue to engage diplomatically to address their differences while maintaining their strategic partnership.

The dialogue between PM Modi and President Trump underscores the complexities in international relations where economic interests often intersect with diplomatic ties. Both leaders seem committed to navigating these challenges while preserving their longstanding friendship.