‘PM Modi Is Smart Man’, India-US Tariffs Will Work Well : Trump
US President Donald Trump on Friday lauded PM Modi as a “very smart man” and a “great friend,” expressing confidence that ongoing tariff negotiations between India and the US will conclude successfully. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump highlighted their strong bond and predicted a positive outcome ahead of the April 2 deadline for reciprocal duties.
Trump’s remarks followed a recent meeting with PM Modi at the White House in February, where their camaraderie was evident. “Prime Minister Modi was here recently, and we’ve always been very good friends,” Trump said. He acknowledged India’s high tariffs, calling it “one of the highest-tariffing nations,” but remained hopeful, adding, “I think it’s going to work out very well between India and our country.” He also praised Modi’s leadership, stating, “You have a great Prime Minister.”
The comments come as both nations work towards an early trade deal to resolve their tariff standoff. Trump has long criticized India’s high import duties, but clarified that India isn’t solely responsible. With reciprocal duties set to begin on April 2, India has proposed tariff reductions on $23 billion worth of imports, including US farm products like almonds and cranberries, Reuters reported. The negotiations aim to ease tensions and strengthen economic ties between the two countries.
In a recent three-hour podcast with AI researcher Lex Fridman, PM Modi reciprocated Trump’s praise, emphasizing their connection over a “Nation First” approach. Recalling the 2019 Howdy Modi event in Texas, Modi noted how Trump joined him for a stadium lap without hesitation. “His life was for his nation, just as I stand for India first. That’s why we connect so well,” Modi said. Trump later shared the podcast on Truth Social, signaling his endorsement of the Indian leader.
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Modi highlighted the consistency of their relationship, even during Joe Biden’s presidency. “Whenever someone we both knew met him, he would say, ‘Modi is my friend, convey my regards.’ That kind of gesture is rare,” Modi told Fridman. Trump echoed this sentiment, calling Modi “a special man” and “tough negotiator” during their February talks. Their friendship has remained a cornerstone of India-US diplomatic relations.
The February White House meeting saw Trump warmly welcome Modi, with productive discussions on trade and bilateral ties. Trump’s latest remarks reinforce his optimism about resolving tariff disputes, a key issue as he prepares to implement reciprocal duties on both allies and competitors. India’s concessions on US agricultural imports could pave the way for a broader agreement, analysts suggest.
With the April 2 deadline approaching, all eyes are on the tariff talks’ outcome. A successful deal could bolster India-US trade ties, balancing Trump’s push for reciprocity with India’s economic interests. Further updates are expected as negotiators finalize terms, potentially setting a new tone for bilateral cooperation in Trump’s second term.
