US President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about the outcome of the ongoing trade negotiations between India and the United States, calling Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi a "very wise man" and a "good friend." As per agency report, Trump’s remarks come amidst his continued criticism of high tariffs imposed by India and other countries on American goods.
Speaking at the White House on Friday, Trump recalled Modi’s recent visit to Washington, stating that the two leaders have shared a strong friendship over the years. He emphasised the importance of the India-US relationship and voiced hope that the ongoing tariff discussions between the two nations would yield "very good results."
Trump described India as one of the countries with the highest tariff structures in the world, calling the system "brutal" but acknowledging that Indian leaders, including Prime Minister Modi, are very smart in their approach. He said their recent discussions were productive and expressed confidence that the bilateral ties would continue to strengthen.
He went on to praise Modi’s leadership, saying, "You have a great Prime Minister," highlighting the strategic and personal significance he places on their relationship.
Prime Minister Modi had visited Washington, D.C. in February and held bilateral discussions with President Trump, just weeks after being sworn in for his second term. The meeting focused on strengthening economic and strategic cooperation between the two countries.
Trump has previously criticised India's tariff policies, calling them excessively high, and has announced that new tariffs on countries imposing such duties on American products will come into effect from April 2.
