Overview
- Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Trump feels very positive about the relationship, respects Prime Minister Modi, and speaks with him frequently.
- The White House confirmed the President and his trade team are in very serious discussions with India on trade and economic cooperation.
- Leavitt noted Trump spoke directly with Modi during Diwali celebrations in the Oval Office with senior Indian-American officials present.
- Trump said last week in South Korea that he hoped to reach a new trade deal with India, signaling renewed momentum.
- Relations had been strained after Washington doubled tariffs on Indian imports to 50%, and following U.S. sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil, Indian refiners reduced Russian oil purchases even as differences over tariffs and energy policy persist.