U.S. President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that he had a “very good” conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G7 summit in France, adding that Washington and New Delhi were working on trade agreements despite recent strains in bilateral ties.
Speaking to reporters, Trump described Modi as a “tough negotiator” and said he expected to visit India in the future.
“I’ll be going to India sometime in the future,” Trump said.
India has been seeking a Trump visit for months, potentially as part of a broader meeting involving Japan and Australia.
First meeting since February 2025
The meeting marked the first in-person talks between Trump and Modi since the Indian leader visited Washington in February 2025, shortly after Trump returned to the White House.
At the time, both sides agreed to work through differences over trade and tariffs. However, relations have since become more complicated.
Washington imposed high tariffs on Indian goods and criticised New Delhi’s continued purchases of Russian oil. The U.S. has also engaged more closely with Pakistan, India’s long-time rival, adding to tensions between the two partners.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio travelled to India last month in an effort to repair relations, but fresh strains emerged following the deaths of three Indian sailors in attacks on commercial vessels by the U.S. Navy in the Gulf.
Modi raises concerns over Indian seafarers
During the meeting, Modi stressed the importance of protecting Indian seafarers working along global shipping routes, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz.
“Hundreds of thousands of Indian seafarers are working across the world, performing their duties along international maritime trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz and their safety is of utmost importance to us,” Modi said.
Referring to the U.S.-brokered peace agreement with Iran, Modi said he was confident the issue of seafarers’ safety would receive the highest priority during the implementation of the deal.
Trump pledges support for India
Asked whether he had conveyed condolences over the deaths of the Indian sailors, Trump acknowledged the dangers faced by maritime workers.
“It’s a rough profession, there’s no question about it, and we work together on it,” he said. “We love all of those people, they’re great people.”
Trump also reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to India’s security.
“If they were attacked, we would be there to help them,” he said when asked about the U.S.-India defence relationship.
Referring to Modi, Trump added: “If anybody attacks that man, we’re going to be there. Now, if there’s a new leader, I’m not sure about it.”
Trade and strategic ties remain vital
Despite recent disagreements over tariffs, energy purchases and regional geopolitics, the latest meeting highlighted the importance both countries place on maintaining their strategic partnership.
The discussions underscored growing efforts by Washington and New Delhi to stabilise ties and advance cooperation on trade, security and regional issues at a time of heightened geopolitical uncertainty.
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