Trump Looks Forward to Speaking with PM Modi Amid Ongoing U.S.–India Trade Negotiations

September 10, 2025 MTIMES 87 Views India US relations, India US tariffs, Peter Navarro India, trade barriers, Trump Modi friendship, U.S.–India trade negotiations, USIBC statement 3 min read

New Delhi: U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday announced that he looks forward to holding a conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the coming weeks while confirming that Washington will continue discussions with New Delhi to address trade barriers U.S.–India trade negotiations.

Sharing a post on Truth Social, Trump said, “I am pleased to announce that India and the United States of America are continuing negotiations to resolve the trade barriers between our two nations. I look forward to speaking with my very good friend, Prime Minister Modi, in the upcoming weeks.” He added that he was confident both countries would achieve a successful conclusion. This statement reflects a softer approach after earlier tense remarks regarding bilateral ties.

Optimism rises as leaders reaffirm friendship in U.S.–India trade negotiations

President Trump’s latest remarks signal a renewed wave of optimism. By calling PM Modi a “great Prime Minister” and emphasizing their personal friendship, he sought to reassure both countries that the relationship remains “very special.” Trump stated that while disagreements occur occasionally, India and the United States share a long-standing strategic partnership. PM Modi warmly reciprocated over the weekend, expressing appreciation for Trump’s sentiments and affirming his commitment to strengthen bilateral ties further.

Advisor Navarro warns of hurdles in U.S.–India trade negotiations

Despite the conciliatory tone, Trump’s trade advisor Peter Navarro renewed his criticism of India’s tariff policies. In an interview with Real America Voice, Navarro argued that India imposes the highest tariffs among major economies and must eventually “come around.” He warned that failure to adjust could align India too closely with Russia and China, which “won’t end well.” Navarro also accused India of profiting from discounted Russian crude oil by reselling refined products internationally, intensifying pressure on New Delhi during ongoing trade discussions.

Tariff disputes shape future of U.S.–India trade negotiations

The shift in tone comes against the backdrop of Washington’s decision to impose 25% tariffs on Indian goods and an additional 25% on Russian oil imports flowing into India. These duties, totaling 50%, have unsettled markets and raised concerns over the impact on India’s exports. Analysts note that while Trump’s outreach reflects an effort to calm tensions, tariff disputes remain the central issue determining the future trajectory of bilateral trade.

Business council supports dialogue on U.S.–India trade negotiations

The U.S.–India Business Council (USIBC) welcomed the positive remarks from both leaders, emphasizing that too much is at stake for both nations to allow tensions to derail progress. The council called for constructive handling of the tariff impasse and urged policymakers to prioritize the decades-long partnership. According to USIBC, sustained dialogue is the only way to protect economic cooperation and strengthen mutual prosperity.

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