September 6, 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday responded warmly to US President Donald Trump’s recent statement that the two leaders would “always be friends,” stating that he “fully reciprocates his sentiments.” The exchange comes at a time when India-US relations are facing strain due to disagreements over tariffs and trade policies.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi expressed his appreciation for President Trump’s positive remarks about bilateral relations. He said, “Deeply appreciate and fully reciprocate President Trump’s sentiments and positive assessment of our ties. India and the US have a very positive and forward-looking Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership.”

On Friday, President Trump referred to the India-US relationship as a “very special relationship” and reaffirmed his personal friendship with PM Modi. However, Trump also voiced disapproval of India’s ongoing imports of Russian oil, stating, “I’ll always be friends with PM Modi. He’s a great Prime Minister. I’ll always be friends, but I just don’t like what he is doing at this particular moment.”

Trump further mentioned that trade negotiations between the two nations are progressing well.

Recently, India-US relations were tested after the Trump administration imposed secondary tariffs exceeding 50% on Indian exports. The tariffs were imposed in response to India’s continued purchase of Russian crude, marking the highest such levy imposed by the US administration, alongside Brazil.

India condemned the move, calling it “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.”

Despite these challenges, both India and the US continue to emphasize the importance of their strategic partnership, focusing on mutual interests such as defense cooperation, technology exchange, and global stability.

Amid growing global uncertainties, both PM Modi and President Trump appear committed to sustaining dialogue and resolving differences through engagement, underscoring the long-term significance of Indo-US relations.