External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar commented on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s response to US President Donald Trump’s remarks on the India-US relationship. Jaishankar stated that PM Modi places great importance on the partnership with the US and has consistently maintained a very good personal relationship with President Trump. He emphasized the ongoing engagement with the US. This followed Prime Minister Modi’s warm response to Trump’s affirmation of India-US ties. Modi expressed his appreciation and reciprocation of Trump’s positive assessment, highlighting the ‘forward-looking’ Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership between the two nations. Trump, in a White House announcement, described the India-US relationship as ‘very special’ and asserted their enduring friendship, dismissing any concerns. However, he expressed some dissatisfaction with Modi’s current actions. When asked if he was ready to reset relations with India, Trump affirmed his continued friendship with Modi, while also noting disagreements on certain issues. He also addressed the issue of India’s oil purchases from Russia, expressing disappointment and mentioning the imposition of a significant tariff on Indian imports. He also referenced a recent meeting in the Rose Garden with Modi. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson previously highlighted the importance of the bilateral relationship during a weekly press briefing, emphasizing the comprehensive global strategic partnership anchored in shared interests, democratic values, and robust people-to-people ties. The spokesperson stated that this partnership has withstood various challenges and that both countries remain focused on their substantive agenda, expressing hope for continued progress based on mutual respect and shared interests.
