US President praises Narendra Modi as a close friend and says ties between Washington and New Delhi have “never been closer”…reports Asian Lite News Desk
Donald Trump on Sunday praised Narendra Modi and reaffirmed support for India during a surprise live video call to an event in New Delhi marking the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence.
Trump told attendees that he was a “big fan” of Prime Minister Modi and said relations between India and the United States had never been stronger.
“I love the Prime Minister. PM Modi is great, he is my friend,” Trump said during the call.
The event was attended by S. Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor.
According to posts shared by Gor on X, Trump personally called during the event and delivered what the ambassador described as a “clear message” about his support for India and Modi.
Trump also addressed the Indian people directly during the live interaction, saying India could count on the United States for support whenever needed.
“We have never been closer to India, and India can count on me and our country 100 per cent,” Trump said.
“If they need any help, they know where to call.”
The US President also praised India while speaking about economic ties between the two countries and claimed Washington was enjoying record economic growth and stock market performance.
“Anything India wants, they will get. I am a big, big fan of Prime Minister Modi,” Trump added.
Before ending the call, Trump said it was an honour to greet Modi and once again described himself as a strong admirer of the Indian Prime Minister.
The remarks came during Rubio’s four day visit to India, which has focused heavily on strengthening strategic and economic cooperation between Washington and New Delhi.
During the visit, Rubio also extended an invitation on behalf of Trump for Modi to visit the White House.
The visit by the top American diplomat comes at an important moment in bilateral relations as both countries seek to deepen economic engagement after months of tensions linked to tariffs and trade policies.
Observers view Rubio’s visit as part of broader efforts to reinforce confidence in the India US partnership and accelerate negotiations on a comprehensive trade agreement.
Earlier on Sunday, Rubio expressed optimism about ongoing trade discussions while addressing a joint media briefing with Jaishankar in New Delhi.
“We’ve made tremendous progress, and I think we’re going to wind up with a trade agreement between the US and India that is going to be enduring and beneficial to both sides,” Rubio said.
He added that the proposed agreement would also remain sustainable while protecting the national interests of both countries.
Relations between India and the United States have expanded significantly in recent years across areas including defence, technology, energy and trade, with both governments continuing to strengthen cooperation through strategic partnerships and regional initiatives.Headline: Headline:
