‘Great Respect, He’s a Fantastic Man, Friend of Mine’: Trump Lauds PM Modi, Sees Good India US Trade Deal

US President Donald Trump struck a notably warm and personal tone while speaking about Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the World Economic Forum in Davos, expressing confidence that India and the United States would eventually find common ground on a trade agreement.

In his only on-camera interaction with an Indian journalist at the summit, Trump praised Modi as both a trusted friend and a respected leader, even as trade tensions between the two countries continue to simmer.

Trump's Personal Praise For PM Modi

Speaking to Moneycontrol on the sidelines of the Davos meet, Trump made his admiration for the Indian Prime Minister clear, highlighting their personal rapport.
"I have great respect for your Prime Minister. He's a fantastic man and a friend of mine," Trump said.

The comments stood out against the backdrop of strained economic ties, signalling that despite policy disagreements, the personal relationship between the two leaders remains cordial. When asked directly about the prospects of a trade agreement, Trump sounded optimistic, adding, "We are going to have a good deal."

Russian Oil Purchases And US Pressure

Earlier this month, Trump publicly linked India's trade treatment with its purchases of Russian oil, suggesting that New Delhi had already adjusted its import strategy to accommodate US concerns.

"They wanted to make me happy," Trump said at the time, adding, "Basically, Modi is a very good man. He knew I was not happy, and it was important to make me happy."

These remarks drew attention to Washington's growing insistence that India align more closely with its position on Russian energy, especially amid broader geopolitical tensions.

Tariff Threats And Trade Warnings

Trump has also issued direct warnings on the trade front, making it clear that tariffs could be increased rapidly if India does not fall in line with US expectations.

"We do trade, and we can raise tariffs on them very quickly," he said, adding, "And it would be very bad for them."

At present, the Trump administration has imposed tariffs totalling 50% on a wide range of Indian exports. These include penalties linked to India's continued engagement with Russia and its involvement in the BRICS grouping.

India's Response And Unresolved Issues

New Delhi has pushed back against claims that it offered assurances on cutting Russian oil imports, maintaining that its energy decisions are driven by national interest and the need for price stability. In response to US tariffs, India has imposed retaliatory duties on select American agricultural products.

Several issues remain unresolved, particularly Washington's demand that India open up its agricultural markets. For New Delhi, farm protections are a politically and economically sensitive matter that it considers non-negotiable. Meanwhile, Trump has continued to tie the prospect of tariff relief to India's energy policy, warning that further penalties could follow if Russian oil purchases continue.

Despite the pressure, Trump's praise for Modi and his confidence in a future agreement suggest that diplomatic channels remain open, even as both sides navigate one of the most challenging phases in India US trade relations.