Modi, Trump hold phone call; discuss trade, defense, energy
What's the story
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Donald Trump held a phone call on Thursday to review the progress of India-US bilateral relations. According to reports, the leaders discuss expanding cooperation in commerce, crucial technologies, energy, defense, and security. "Had a very warm and engaging conversation with President Trump," PM Modi said in an X post. "We reviewed the progress in our bilateral relations and discussed regional and international developments."
Peace pledge
Modi and Trump reaffirm commitment to global peace
In their conversation, PM Modi and President Trump also reiterated their commitment to work together for global peace, stability, and prosperity. They agreed to stay in touch as high-level engagements continue between both nations. The leaders expressed satisfaction at the steady strengthening of ties between India and the US. They underscored the need to sustain momentum in efforts to enhance bilateral trade.
Statement
Last call was in October
"The leaders also exchanged views on expanding cooperation in critical technologies, energy, defence and security, and other priority areas that are central to the implementation of the India-US COMPACT (Catalysing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology) for the 21st century)," a statement from the two leaders said. The two leaders held their last phone call in October of this year, when Modi congratulated Trump on the "success" of the Gaza peace plan.
Official
'India offering us best-ever deal': US official
Earlier, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer testified before the Senate Appropriations Committee, stating that the country has received its "best ever" market-access offer from India for a long-pending bilateral trade pact. He said while India remains a "tough nut to crack," its latest proposals are the best the US has seen. "There's resistance in India to certain row crops and other meats and products....But..the type of offers they've been talking to us about have been the best we've ever received."
Time
Severed ties between US and India
Ties between the United States and India have deteriorated since Trump imposed a 25% penalty for New Delhi's purchase of Russian oil in July, in addition to 25% tariffs announced after he took office. India has repeatedly called the tariffs unfair, citing the fact that China is the largest purchaser of Russian oil and the European Union buys the most LNG from the country.
Putin
US Congresswoman cites Modi-Putin car picture at hearing
The call also comes days after Russian President Vladimir Putin's high-profile visit to India, which saw several deals being signed. Putin received a red-carpet welcome at Delhi's Palam Airport and was greeted by PM Modi with a handshake and hug. The two leaders then drove together in an Indian-assembled Toyota Fortuner to PM Modi's residence for dinner. During a congressional hearing, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove used the photo to illustrate her point that Washington's actions are pushing India closer to Russia.