Amid Trade Tensions, Trump Hints At Possible India Visit Next Year

President Trump has hinted at a visit to India next year. As trade negotiations progress, he praised PM Modi, highlighting their friendly relationship amidst tariffs on Indian goods.

Amid the ongoing trade tensions, US President Donald Trump on Thursday hinted at a possible visit to India next year.

During a press briefing at the White House, Trump referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "great man" and a "friend." He mentioned that discussions with PM Modi were progressing well.

Trump stated, "He (PM Modi) largely stopped buying from Russia. And he is a friend of mine, and we speak. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a great man. He is a friend of mine, and we speak, and he wants me to go there. We will figure that out, I will go... Prime Minister Modi is a great man, and I will be going."

India-US Trade Relations

The possibility of Trump's visit arises amidst ongoing trade talks between India and the US. The relations between India and the US has strained since Trump came to power. Washington's decision to impose a 50 per cent tariff on Indian goods due to India's continued purchase of Russian oil and the US' growing friendship with Pakistan have added to the foes. The Ministry of External Affairs in India responded by emphasizing that their energy sourcing decisions prioritize national interests and consumer welfare.

When questioned about his travel plans to India next year, Trump responded affirmatively, saying, "It could be, yes." His remarks were made during an announcement of a new initiative aimed at reducing the cost of popular weight loss drugs in the United States.

Quad Summit Developments

This development follows reports from August by The New York Times indicating that Trump would not attend the upcoming Quad Summit in India later this year. This decision came after Washington imposed heavy tariffs on Indian goods. Despite earlier assurances to PM Modi about attending the summit in the fall, sources familiar with Trump's schedule confirmed the change in plans.

The relationship between India and the US remains significant as both countries navigate complex trade negotiations. Trump's potential visit could further strengthen ties between the two nations.