Trump Calls PM Modi a Great Man, Hints at India Visit in 2026 Amid Trade Talks
US President Donald Trump praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a 'great man' and indicated he may visit India next year. This comes amid ongoing efforts to finalize a major trade deal between the two countries, with improved talks following earlier tariff disputes and tensions related to India's purchase of Russian oil.
US President Donald Trump praised PM Narendra Modi, calling him a 'great man' and a 'dear friend,' while suggesting a possible visit to India in 2026. Trump confirmed that he and Modi frequently communicate and that Modi wants him to visit. The remarks coincide with intensified negotiations aimed at finalizing a significant bilateral trade agreement targeted to boost bilateral trade from $191 billion to $500 billion by 2030. This thaw in relations follows earlier tensions caused by US-imposed tariffs on Indian goods due to India's substantial imports of Russian crude oil. Trump noted that Modi has largely stopped buying Russian oil, which has eased some friction. The potential visit, if confirmed, would mark an important diplomatic moment that could facilitate the closure of the trade deal. Despite recent optimism, the durability of the renewed warmth between the two countries remains uncertain given past disputes and geopolitical complexities. Trump's last visit to India was in February 2020, marked by large-scale public events, and the upcoming visit would further solidify ties amid evolving global trade and energy dynamics.
