India, US signal thaw as PM Modi, Trump push for swift trade deal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 10 struck an optimistic note on India–US trade talks, responding to former US President Donald Trump’s outreach with a message that underscored the resilience of the relationship between the two democracies.

Modi said that negotiating teams on both sides were working to wrap up discussions “at the earliest” and expressed confidence that the eventual deal would “unlock the limitless potential of the India–US partnership.” He added that he was looking forward to speaking directly with Trump soon.

“India and the US are close friends and natural partners. Our teams are working to conclude these discussions at the earliest. We will work together to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for both our people,” Modi posted on X.

Trump, in a message on Truth Social earlier in the day, announced that Washington and New Delhi were continuing negotiations “to address trade barriers” and voiced optimism about reaching a successful conclusion. Calling Modi a “very good friend,” he said he anticipated no difficulty in finalizing an agreement.

The conciliatory tone marked a sharp shift from recent months of strain, when Trump had slapped an additional 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods as retaliation for New Delhi’s purchase of Russian oil. On September 6, however, he softened his stance, declaring that India and the US share a “special relationship” and that his friendship with Modi remained “unshakable.”

Hours later, Modi responded warmly, saying he “fully reciprocated” Trump’s sentiments and reaffirming that the India–US partnership was “comprehensive and forward-looking.”

With both leaders now signaling a renewed willingness to compromise, diplomats say the stage may be set for a breakthrough in one of the most consequential trade negotiations of the year.