US President Donald Trump has indicated that he plans to visit India in the near future, signalling an improvement in relations between Washington and New Delhi following a period of diplomatic strain.
Speaking after a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the G7 summit in France, Trump said he would visit India “sometime in the future” and expressed optimism that the two countries were close to finalising a long-awaited trade agreement.
The meeting marked a notable shift in tone after months of tension between the two nations. Relations had been strained by trade disputes, tariff measures proposed by the Trump administration, and the recent deaths of three Indian sailors in a US military strike in the Gulf of Oman. The strike targeted a tanker accused by Washington of violating its blockade on Iranian ports.
During the discussions, Modi raised concerns about the safety of Indian sailors working in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for global energy supplies. The leaders also reviewed ongoing trade negotiations, which have faced setbacks due to proposed US import taxes on countries accused of failing to address forced labour concerns.
Trump described Modi as a “tough negotiator” and reiterated America’s commitment to strengthening ties with India. He also suggested that the United States would support India in the event of external aggression, underlining the strategic importance of the bilateral partnership.
The meeting comes as officials from both countries prepare for another round of trade talks in New Delhi. India and the US have been working toward a broader trade agreement since last year, although disagreements over tariffs and market access have complicated progress.
Beyond trade, differences remain on issues such as Kashmir, immigration policies, and H-1B visa restrictions. However, the latest engagement between Trump and Modi suggests both governments are seeking to stabilise relations and expand cooperation in trade, security and regional affairs.
