New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday celebrations received an international touch as US President Donald Trump phoned him with warm wishes, only hours after stalled trade discussions between New Delhi and Washington were revived.
In a brief post on X, Modi acknowledged Trump’s gesture and noted the progress in bilateral talks. “Like you, I remain committed to advancing the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership,” he wrote, adding support for initiatives aimed at securing peace in the Ukraine conflict.
Trump, for his part, shared the exchange on Truth Social, praising Modi’s leadership and thanking him for backing his efforts to bring an end to the Russia-Ukraine war. “Just had a great phone call with my friend, Prime Minister Modi. He’s doing an incredible job,” Trump wrote.
The interaction comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions over Washington’s tariffs on Indian goods, introduced last year after differences over New Delhi’s purchase of Russian crude. While senior US officials had earlier taken a critical line, the personal rapport between the two leaders seems to have created fresh space for dialogue.
Observers note that Trump’s outreach could signal a softer American approach as both sides attempt to address trade barriers. With negotiations resuming and the leaders exchanging cordial remarks, diplomatic watchers believe the groundwork may be set for progress on a long-awaited trade pact.
