NEW DELHI: A senior US official has confirmed that a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump is likely, ANI reported on Thursday. While details and timing were not disclosed, the official said, “I’m sure you’ll see the two meet. They have a very, very positive relationship.”
Warm words despite tensions
Despite frictions over tariffs and visa rules, Trump has repeatedly described Modi as a “good friend” and the India–US relationship as “very special.” On Modi’s 75th birthday, Trump publicly praised him:
“Just had a wonderful phone call with my friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I wished him a very Happy Birthday! He is doing a tremendous job. Narendra: Thank you for your support on ending the War between Russia and Ukraine!”
Recent high-level contacts
Earlier this week, external affairs minister S Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The two “agreed on the importance of sustained engagement to progress on priority areas,” according to official statements.
The last Modi–Trump meeting took place in February, where bilateral talks covered trade, energy, and defence cooperation.
Points of friction
Relations have been strained in recent months over:
- Trump’s decision to impose a 50% tariff on Indian imports, including a 25% levy linked to Russian oil.
- A new $100,000 H-1B visa fee, expected to affect Indian IT firms and startups.
Negotiators from both countries are continuing trade talks as a deadline approaches.
