SRINAGAR: US President Donald Trump has hailed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “very tough negotiator” following a high-level bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France. The encounter, which marked the first one-on-one session between the two leaders in 16 months, has signalled a renewed effort to stabilise ties and finalise a long-awaited trade agreement.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, President Trump lavished praise on the Prime Minister, describing him as a “beautiful-looking man” who possesses the resolve of a “killer” when it comes to business.
“He is a very tough negotiator. One of the toughest, actually,” the US President stated, adding that the two nations are “very close” to completing a bilateral trade deal. According to The Hindustan Times, Trump noted that while the Prime Minister may appear calm and pleasant, his negotiating style often catches counterparts by surprise.
The meeting also served as a platform to address broader geopolitical concerns. Responding to inquiries regarding the strategic partnership between Washington and New Delhi, President Trump offered a robust public endorsement of India’s security.
“If they were attacked, we would be there to help them,” Trump said. In a remark that drew laughter from those in attendance, he added that such support is specifically tied to the current leadership, noting, “If anybody attacks that man, we’re going to be there. Now, if there’s a new leader, I’m not sure about it.”
During the discussions, the two leaders touched upon several pressing international issues, including the conflict in the Middle East and the security of the Strait of Hormuz. Prime Minister Modi emphasised the need to ensure the safety of global seafarers, while President Trump reaffirmed that India plays a significant role in West Asian stability as long as Prime Minister Modi remains at the helm, according to India Today.
Looking ahead, President Trump signalled his intent to travel to India in the future. Recalling his previous visit to the country, he expressed a desire to return, a sentiment that follows their history of large-scale public exchanges, such as the “Howdy, Modi!” event in Houston and the “Namaste Trump” rally in Ahmedabad.
The G7 meeting comes at a sensitive juncture for the two nations, which have been navigating recent frictions over US tariff policies and regional security concerns. However, the optics of the meeting—characterised by a warm handshake and light-hearted exchanges—suggest a shared commitment to advancing cooperation in defence and economic sectors.
