PM Modi Speaks with US President Trump in First Call After Inauguration

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with newly sworn-in US President Donald Trump, marking the first conversation between the two leaders, who consider each other friends, since Trump's grand inauguration.

Donald Trump took the oath of office on January 20, securing a remarkable victory over his Democratic rival Kamala Harris three months earlier. The inauguration ceremony in Washington saw a host of global celebrities, including Indian industrialist Mukesh Ambani and his wife Nita Ambani. Indian-American figures, such as Google CEO Sundar Pichai, were also in attendance.

India was represented by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who also participated in a subsequent meeting with other representatives from QUAD nations.

Following the event, Jaishankar expressed praise for the growing and strong bilateral relationship between India and the United States, emphasizing that the Trump administration is focused on enhancing this partnership and building on the foundation laid by prior administrations.

Speaking to the media, Jaishankar highlighted the Trump administration's clear enthusiasm for India's involvement in the inaugural event and its strategic goals. "It was very keen. It was clear that the Trump administration valued India's presence at the inauguration. They're prioritizing the bilateral relationship," Jaishankar stated.