'We Have a Great Friend in PM Modi': US Embassy Shares Trump's Unexpected Praise

New Delhi: In a message that caught many by surprise, the United States Embassy in India on Tuesday shared remarks by US President Donald Trump praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and calling India a key American partner, a signal that ties may be warming again after months of trade strain.

What did Trump say about PM Modi?

The message, posted by the US Embassy on X, quoted Trump describing India as an "amazing country" and one of the world's oldest civilisations. He went on to say the US has “a great friend in PM Modi” and stressed India’s importance to America in the Indo-Pacific region.

"India is home to one of the world's oldest civilizations. It is an amazing country and an important strategic partner for America in the Indo-Pacific region. We have a great friend in PM Modi," the US Embassy in India shared the message. 

"India is home to one of the world’s oldest civilizations. It is an amazing country and an important strategic partner for America in the Indo-Pacific region. We have a great friend in PM Modi" - President Donald J. Trump pic.twitter.com/lF3MWv10V6

— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) December 16, 2025

The post quickly drew attention in diplomatic and political circles, coming at a time when New Delhi and Washington are trying to steady a relationship tested by tariff disputes and sharp public exchanges earlier this year.

Why does this message matter now?

The embassy's post follows a phone conversation between Modi and Trump held last week. It was their first direct contact since October and took place amid renewed efforts to ease trade tensions.

In the discussion, the two leaders reviewed the broader state of bilateral ties and explored ways to keep economic engagement moving. The call came as negotiations on trade issues showed early signs of progress after a long stalemate.

What is happening on the trade front?

Trade has been the biggest sore point in India-US relations this year. The relationship hit a low when the Trump administration imposed steep reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods. These included a 25 percent duty, followed by another 25 percent penalty linked to India's purchase of Russian oil, taking the total tariff burden to 50 percent, which is the highest imposed by the US on any trading partner.

Since then, both sides have been trying to find common ground. A US delegation led by Deputy Trade Representative Rick Switzer was in New Delhi recently for two days of talks. The delegation met senior Indian officials, including Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, to discuss the framework of a possible trade arrangement and reduce friction in key sectors.

While no formal announcement has been made, officials on both sides say discussions are moving steadily.

What did PM Modi say after the call?

After speaking to Trump, Modi described the interaction in warm terms. In a post on X, the Prime Minister said the conversation was “very warm and engaging” and covered progress in bilateral ties as well as regional and global developments.

“India and the US will continue to work together for global peace, stability, and prosperity,” Modi said, without directly referring to tariffs or trade disputes.

Are the two countries moving closer to a deal?

There are growing signals that New Delhi and Washington may be edging towards a trade understanding. Chief Economic Advisor V. Anantha Nageswaran said last week that he expects an India-US trade deal to be concluded by the end of the current financial year.

At the same time, India’s leadership has made it clear that any agreement must balance closer economic engagement with domestic interests. Officials have stressed that New Delhi will not rush into a deal that undermines local industry or policy priorities.