New Delhi [India], September 16 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday thanked US President Donald Trump for his phone call and greetings on his 75th birthday, affirming that, like the US leader, he remains committed to elevating the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights.
In a post on X, PM Modi referred to President Trump as “my friend” and expressed support for Washington’s initiatives aimed at a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict.
“Thank you, my friend, President Trump, for your phone call and warm greetings on my 75th birthday. Like you, I am also fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights. We support your initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict,” the Prime Minister said.
The greetings from President Trump coincided with a visit by US Trade Representative Brendan Lynch to New Delhi for discussions on advancing bilateral trade negotiations.
According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Lynch held a positive meeting with Special Secretary Rajesh Agrawal on Tuesday, with both sides deciding to intensify efforts to conclude a mutually beneficial trade agreement.
“Acknowledging the enduring importance of bilateral trade between India and the US, the discussions were positive and forward-looking, covering various aspects of the trade deal. It was decided to intensify efforts to achieve early conclusion of a mutually beneficial Trade Agreement,” the ministry said in a statement.
A US Embassy spokesperson confirmed that Lynch’s meeting in Delhi with Indian officials was constructive and that the two countries’ chief negotiators agreed to continue discussions virtually.
India and the United States have already held five rounds of negotiations for an interim trade agreement. The planned sixth round in August was postponed, as talks remain ongoing to finalize a framework.
In July, President Trump imposed 25 percent tariffs on Indian goods, later raising them to 50 percent in response to India’s continued imports of Russian oil. India has expressed concerns about US demands to open its agricultural and dairy markets, citing their significance for the livelihoods of millions.
Negotiations for a just, balanced, and mutually beneficial Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) were launched in March 2025, with both nations aiming to complete the first phase by October-November this year.
Last week, Prime Minister Modi described New Delhi and Washington as “natural partners” and voiced confidence in the progress of the talks. “India and the US are close friends and natural partners. I am confident that our trade negotiations will pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the India-US partnership. Our teams are working to conclude these discussions at the earliest. I am also looking forward to speaking with President Trump. We will work together to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for both our people,” he said in a post on X. (ANI)
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