From ‘Dead Economy’ to ‘Dear Friend’: Discover Donald Trump’s Powerful Insights on Revitalizing India-US Relations
US President Donald Trump has recently moderated his approach towards India, expressing optimism about ongoing trade discussions. This shift in tone comes shortly after he voiced concerns that both India and Russia had become increasingly aligned with China. In a post on September 9 on Truth Social, Trump announced, “I am pleased to announce that India, and the United States of America, are continuing negotiations to address the trade barriers between our two nations. 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!”
Responding to Trump’s remarks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X, stating that India and the US are “close friends and natural partners.” He emphasized the swift conclusion of discussions, declaring, “We will work together to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for both our people.” This positive exchange marks the second instance in just a few days where Trump has acknowledged the strong ties between the two nations. At a recent White House press briefing, Trump described Modi as a “great Prime Minister” and affirmed, “India and the United States have a special relationship. There’s nothing to worry about. We just have moments on occasion,” suggesting a commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
Modi reciprocated Trump’s sentiments, expressing that he “deeply appreciates and fully reciprocates” the positive assessment of their partnership, which he branded as “very positive and forward-looking.” However, this camaraderie is underscored by ongoing tensions surrounding trade and energy policies. Trump has not shied away from publicly expressing his disappointment over India’s significant purchases of discounted Russian crude oil amid the Ukraine conflict. He stated, “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-50 percent tariff-very high tariff.” Recently, the tariffs on Indian goods escalated to 50%, with an additional 25% duty linked to oil imports, a move India labeled “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable.”
Trump has gone further, accusing India of “war profiteering” in relation to Russian oil, even suggesting that the Ukraine conflict could be viewed as “Modi’s war.” During the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, where Modi was seen alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, Trump tweeted, “Looks like we have lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest China. May they have a long and prosperous future together!”
Earlier this year, Trump leveled severe criticism at India, denouncing it as a “dead economy” and alleging that New Delhi was manipulating the market by capitalizing on discounted Russian oil, accusing it of having “among the highest… and most strenuous and obnoxious” tariffs. As negotiations continue, the future of US-India trade relations remains pivotal in shaping the geopolitical landscape, with leaders aiming for a mutually beneficial outcome amid their complex history.
Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/india/from-dead-economy-to-dear-friend-donald-trumps-top-remarks-on-india-us-ties-11757483577312.html
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Publish Date: 2025-09-10 12:56:00