Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed a significant telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump on Thursday evening, marking a crucial moment in India-US diplomatic relations. The two leaders reviewed the current status of the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, agreeing to maintain the positive energy driving ongoing bilateral trade negotiations.
This latest exchange—the third Modi-Trump phone call since the US administration levied steep 50 percent tariffs on Indian exports—occurred just as American and Indian trade officials wrapped up two days of intensive talks in New Delhi.
Taking to social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi described the interaction as "warm and engaging." He highlighted that both nations are committed to working together to ensure global peace, stability, and prosperity. The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) later released a statement noting that the leaders expressed satisfaction with the steady strengthening of ties across various sectors.
Focus on COMPACT and Strategic Defense
Government sources indicate that the conversation went beyond general pleasantries. The leaders delved into specific areas of cooperation including defense, security, energy, and critical technologies. These sectors are central to the ambitious India-US COMPACT (Catalysing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce and Technology) initiative, which aims to modernize the partnership for the 21st century.
The Trade Deal: "Sign on the Dotted Line"
While the Prime Minister focused on the broader strategic picture, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal addressed the specifics of the trade deal from Mumbai. Responding to US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer’s comment that Washington had received India's "best" offer, Goyal was direct.
"His happiness is very much welcome," Goyal told reporters. "I do believe that if they are very happy, they should be signing on the dotted line."
Conflicting Timelines on Deal Completion
However, Minister Goyal cautioned against negotiating under the pressure of artificial deadlines. "A deal is only done when both sides stand to benefit," Goyal asserted, dismissing the CEA's timeline by noting that negotiations are complex and cannot be rushed without risking mistakes.
As India-US trade relations continue to navigate the challenges of high tariffs and market access, this high-level intervention by PM Modi and President Trump signals a strong political will to bridge the gaps.
