Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Donald Trump held a significant bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening the India-US strategic partnership, expanding trade relations and cooperating on global security challenges.
The meeting was marked by a series of strong statements from Trump, who publicly expressed unwavering support for India and praised Prime Minister Modi’s leadership on multiple fronts. The most significant remark came when Trump said that the United States would stand firmly with India if the country faced any external threat.
“If Modi is the leader and India is attacked, we will be there to help them,” Trump said during the meeting. The statement is being viewed as one of the strongest public expressions of support for India from Trump during his presidency and reflects the growing strategic convergence between Washington and New Delhi.
India-US Relations Gaining New Energy: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the relationship between India and the United States was entering a new phase of growth and dynamism.
He emphasised that bilateral ties were gathering fresh momentum across sectors, including trade, defence, technology and global cooperation. “India-US relations are gaining new speed and energy,” PM Modi said.
The leaders discussed efforts to advance a bilateral trade agreement, with Trump describing the conversations as productive and promising.
Trade Deal Among Key Priorities
Speaking before formal talks began, Trump highlighted ongoing negotiations aimed at deepening economic engagement between the two nations. “We had some very good conversations with Prime Minister Modi of India. We’re doing trade deals. A lot of things are happening between the United States and India,” Trump said.
Trade has emerged as a central pillar of India-US relations, with both countries seeking to expand market access, boost investments and strengthen supply chains in critical sectors.
Trump Praises Modi’s Leadership
Trump repeatedly referred to Modi as a close friend and one of the world’s influential leaders. “He’s been my friend for a long time now, and we’ve always had a great relationship. It’s great to be with you,” Trump said.
In a lighter moment, Trump made an unusual but widely discussed observation about Modi’s personality. “He is the most beautiful-looking man. He looks so nice. He is like an angel. But actually he is as tough as a killer. He is a killer. But he looks so good, so he gets you by surprise,” Trump remarked, drawing laughter from those present.
India’s Role In West Asia Receives Recognition
During the talks, Prime Minister Modi praised Trump’s efforts to advance peace initiatives in West Asia and expressed optimism about future stability in the region. “I commend you for your leadership on the progress in peace efforts in West Asia,” PM Modi told Trump.
Trump, in turn, acknowledged India’s increasing influence in global affairs and said New Delhi would play an important role in shaping developments in the region. “Yes, I do. I think India plays a big role in everything,” Trump said when asked about India’s potential contribution in West Asia. He further added,“As long as he is the leader, India is going to play a big role.”
Focus On Maritime Security And Strait Of Hormuz
Prime Minister Modi also underlined the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation and ensuring the safety of Indian seafarers working across international waters.
He stressed that uninterrupted shipping through critical trade routes remains essential for the global economy.
PM Modi highlighted the strategic significance of the Strait of Hormuz and said both leaders shared similar concerns. “We agree that keeping the Strait of Hormuz open is vital for the global economy,” PM Modi said.
He also expressed hope that ongoing diplomatic efforts would bring greater peace and stability to the region while protecting thousands of Indian seafarers involved in global maritime trade.
Trump Reaffirms White House Support For India
Trump concluded his remarks by reiterating his personal commitment towards strengthening ties with India. “As long as I am President, they have a great friend in the White House,” Trump said.
He also praised India’s global standing under Modi’s leadership. “Everyone here loves India and they have tremendous respect for this man,” Trump said while gesturing towards Prime Minister Modi.
