New Delhi: Former US President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about finalising a trade agreement with India soon, while praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and highlighting their strong personal rapport.
Speaking at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit in South Korea, Trump said he shared a “great relationship” with PM Modi and held deep respect for him. He added that discussions toward a trade pact between the two nations were progressing positively and could reach a conclusion in the near future.
During his address to business leaders, Trump also recounted his past diplomatic efforts involving India and Pakistan, claiming that his intervention once helped prevent an escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. He said his approach of using trade leverage played a role in easing tensions in the region.
Trump arrived in South Korea ahead of key meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, as leaders gathered in Gyeongju for the APEC summit to discuss regional cooperation, economic growth, and trade realignments.
His remarks come at a time when New Delhi and Washington continue to navigate complex trade negotiations. The talks have faced friction since the United States imposed steep tariffs—up to 50 percent—on several categories of Indian exports earlier this year, citing trade imbalances and concerns over India’s oil imports from Russia.
Despite the pressure, India has maintained that its energy decisions are based on national interests and economic stability. Officials in New Delhi have reiterated that securing affordable energy supplies is a key priority to support domestic growth and ensure long-term security, regardless of external geopolitical dynamics.
As global trade patterns shift and both economies look to strengthen strategic ties, Trump’s renewed outreach toward India underscores the continued importance of the bilateral relationship, particularly in areas of trade, technology, and regional security.
