Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Donald Trump held a warm and detailed phone conversation on Thursday, reviewing the progress of India–US ties at a time when trade negotiations and tariff issues remain sensitive. The leaders said the call was positive and focused on strengthening cooperation across key sectors.
During the discussion, Modi and Trump assessed developments under the India–US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. They agreed that both countries must continue working closely on trade, investment and market access issues. This assumes importance as officials from the two nations are currently meeting in New Delhi to push forward negotiations on a bilateral trade agreement. The aim is to resolve differences over tariffs and open more avenues for commerce.
The two leaders also discussed expanding collaboration in energy, defence, security and critical technologies. These areas have been priorities for both nations as they seek to build a deeper strategic relationship, especially in the Indo-Pacific region. Strengthening defence cooperation, enhancing energy partnerships and supporting technology transfer were highlighted as shared goals.
Prime Minister Modi described the exchange as warm and engaging. He said the conversation covered regional and global matters, and reaffirmed that India and the United States will continue working together for peace, stability and prosperity. Both leaders expressed confidence that the long-standing partnership between the two countries will remain strong despite the current challenges.
The call comes in the backdrop of earlier tariff hikes by the United States on certain Indian imports, including a high duty on multiple categories of goods. These measures have led to friction in talks, with both sides trying to reduce differences through ongoing negotiations. Some voices in the US have also raised concerns that tariff policies and visa-related fees may be affecting bilateral ties.
Despite these tensions, the phone call indicated a willingness on both sides to maintain high-level engagement and preserve constructive dialogue. Modi and Trump agreed to stay in close contact as trade talks progress, signalling a shared commitment to finding solutions and moving the partnership forward.
