'Looking forward to speaking with Trump': PM Modi responds to US Prez's fresh outreach amid tariff war

Modi posted on X, "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."

In his Truth Social post, Trump said: "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!"

Trump's outreach came just a day after his trade advisor Peter Navarro's attack on India over the trade issues.

Calling India "Maharaja of tariffs", Navarro issued a strongly worded warning against India’s high tariffs, stating the situation "won’t end well" if New Delhi does not "come around" in ongoing trade negotiations.

Last Friday, Trump acknowledged his personal friendship with Modi toning down on the South Asian country amid the tariff war.

When asked about whether he intends to reset relations with India, Trump said calmly, "I will always be friends with Modi, he is a great Prime Minister.

"I just don't like what he is doing at this particular moment but India and the United States have a special relationship. There is nothing to worry about. We just have moments on occasion."

US-India tariff war

The Trump administration, which was earlier viewed as India-friendly, has slapped a 25 percent tariff on the South Asian country for its high tariffs on American exports and another 25 percent for purchasing oil from Russia which is fighting a war against Ukraine.

Since the conflict in Ukraine began in early 2022, India significantly increased its imports of discounted Russian crude oil—now comprising over 30 percent of its total crude imports.

Indian refineries then export refined petroleum products globally which critics, especially in the U.S., argue that indirectly supports Russia’s war effort by funneling money into its economy.

In response, the US proposed tariffs and trade measures targeting India’s exports to discourage this behavior.

India said that, like any major economy, it will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security.

Modi unequivocally said India won't compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen and livestock rearers.