PM Modi Congratulates Donald Trump On Historic US Election Victory; Eyes Strengthening India-US Ties

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended heartfelt congratulations to Donald Trump following his projected victory in the United States presidential election.

In a message posted on X, PM Modi expressed his enthusiasm for continuing and strengthening the India-US Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership, which has grown significantly in recent years.

The Prime Minister posted, “Heartiest congratulations my friend @realDonaldTrump on your historic election victory. As you build on the successes of your previous term, I look forward to renewing our collaboration to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership. Together, let’s work for the betterment of our people and to promote global peace, stability and prosperity.”

Trump’s victory was confirmed by several media outlets, with projections showing that he secured 277 Electoral College votes, surpassing the 270 needed to clinch the presidency.

The congratulatory message comes as a continuation of the positive rapport between the two leaders, which had been evident in their interactions during Trump’s first term.

Trump Praises Modi, Calls Him A ‘Total Killer’

In September, ahead of his US visit for the Quad Summit and the UN General Assembly, Trump had praised PM Modi, calling him a ‘fantastic man’ and expressing hope for a productive meeting.

However, during his re-election campaign, Trump made waves by calling PM Modi a ‘total killer’ when discussing India’s global standing and leadership.

During a podcast interview, Trump stated, “He’s great, he’s a friend of mine, but on the outside, he looks like he’s your father, yet he’s the nicest, total killer.”

“We had a couple of occasions where somebody was threatening India. I said, let me help. I’m very good with those people. Let me help,” he recalled.

Trump further added, “But Modi turned down the offer saying, I will do it. I will do it, and I will do anything necessary. We’ve defeated them for hundreds of years.”

Beyond their dynamics, experts believe the relationship between the two leaders could play a significant role in shaping the future of the US-India partnership.

Bolton Calls US-India Ties ‘Defining Event Of The 21st Century’

In a recent interview, former US National Security Adviser John Bolton highlighted the importance of the India-US relationship. He predicted that it could be the defining event of the 21st century as India rises as a major global power.

Bolton emphasized that strong personal ties between PM Modi and Trump have positively influenced the broader diplomatic relationship.

“I think the US-India relationship could well be the defining event of the 21st century. How we work together, how we deal with the threat posed by China and other complicated problems in the world, could well be the most important foreign policy priority for both countries. I do think Trump and Modi have a good personal relationship and, in Trump’s view, he thinks if he has a good personal relationship with the leader of another country, then the two countries have good relations. That’s an oversimplification. But it’s certainly, particularly with friendly countries, if the two leaders have a good relationship that can help overcome, you know, problems that develop,” Bolton stated.

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