Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday described the United States as a “close friend” and a “natural partner” of India. His remarks came in response to a social media post by US President Donald Trump regarding ongoing trade discussions between the two countries.

In his post on X, PM Modi said, “India and the US are close friends and natural partners. I am confident that our trade negotiations will pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the India-US partnership. Our teams are working to conclude these discussions at the earliest. I am also looking forward to speaking with President Trump. We will work together to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for both our people.”

Earlier, President Trump expressed optimism over the talks, saying he feels “certain” that Washington and Delhi will reach a successful conclusion. Trump added that he looks forward to speaking with his “very good friend”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the coming weeks. He wrote, “I look forward to speaking with my very good friend, Prime Minister Modi, in the upcoming weeks. I feel certain that there will be no difficulty in coming to a successful conclusion for both of our great countries!”

Taking to social media, Trump also said he was “pleased to announce that India and the United States of America are continuing negotiations to address the trade barriers between our two nations.”

The comments come after weeks of tension in India-US relations over Trump’s tough rhetoric and tariffs. The Trump administration had imposed an additional 25 per cent tariff on India for its purchases of Russian oil, on top of a previous 25 per cent reciprocal tariff. This brought the total duties on New Delhi to 50 per cent, effective from August 27.

India had turned to Russian oil sold at a discount after Western countries imposed sanctions on Moscow following its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. On the tariffs, Trump had said, “…I've been very disappointed that India would be buying so much oil… from Russia, and I let them know that. We put a very big tariff on India, a 50 per cent tariff, a very high tariff. I get along very well with Modi; he's great. He was here a couple of months ago.”

India has defended its purchase of Russian crude oil, saying its energy procurement is guided by national interest and market dynamics.

The latest exchange between the two leaders indicates a thaw in bilateral relations, with both sides showing willingness to work together. As trade negotiations continue, officials from India and the US are focused on resolving trade barriers and strengthening economic ties between the two “natural partners”.

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