PM Modi- US President Trump Have Always Been Good friends: MEA S Jaishankar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's quick acknowledgment of U.S. President Donald Trump's latest praise for India-US relations suggests both leaders may be looking for a course correction. After years of friction, the exchange has sparked speculation that the two countries could attempt to revive a partnership once hailed as one of the defining alliances of the 21st century.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, while measured in tone, made it clear that Modi still places value on personal diplomacy with Trump. "We remain engaged with the U.S., and at this time I can't say more than that," Jaishankar remarked, underscoring the importance of keeping lines of communication open even in uncertain times.

A Partnership Tested

For India, the U.S. remains a critical partner. Yet ties have been strained under Trump's presidency, with disagreements over trade, immigration rules, defense alignments, and India's balancing act with Russia and China. The Ministry of External Affairs insists India remains committed to advancing the partnership on "shared interests and mutual respect."

Trump's tone has also fluctuated-from controversial claims of brokering peace between India and Pakistan to sharper rhetoric about New Delhi's global positioning. His latest remarks, however, signal a more conciliatory stance.

The UNGA Factor

Whether Modi himself joins the 80th UN General Assembly later this month remains uncertain. India has informed the UN that Jaishankar will deliver the national statement on September 26, though Modi retains the option to travel if diplomacy requires it. A Modi-Trump meeting on the sidelines, if it materialises, could mark a turning point.

Balancing Diplomacy and Reality

Even as Trump reassures that India-US relations are on solid ground, New Delhi is weighing its moves carefully. The stakes are high: the U.S. is both a key market and a strategic counterweight to China. Yet India must also navigate regional complexities, including ties with Moscow and tensions with Islamabad.