Trump Announces India Visit Next Year; Hails PM Modi As ‘Great Man’

During a press conference at the White House on Thursday, US President Donald Trump stated that he intends to visit India next year.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as ‘a great man’ and ‘my friend’, Trump noted the strong rapport between the two leaders.

“He’s a friend of mine, and we speak. He wants me to go there. We’ll figure that out. I’ll go…He’s a great man,” Trump remarked, underscoring his enthusiasm for the upcoming trip. When asked specifically about visiting India next year, he responded affirmatively, adding, “It could be, yeah.”

Recalling His Last Visit

Trump reminisced about his last visit to India in 2020, describing it as a ‘great trip’ alongside Prime Minister Modi.

The US President highlighted the warmth of the reception he received in India and the strong cultural and diplomatic connections he experienced during the visit. He also mentioned India’s decision to largely stop purchasing oil from Russia, reflecting ongoing strategic discussions between the two nations.

The announcement follows statements from the White House emphasising Trump’s respect for PM Modi and his commitment to fostering a strong bilateral relationship.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that the President and PM Modi ‘speak pretty frequently’, reinforcing the personal and professional connection between the leaders.

Leavitt added that the US-India trade negotiations are progressing seriously. “The President and his trade team continue to be in very serious discussions with India with respect to that topic,” she said, highlighting the strategic importance of the partnership.

Diwali Celebration and Diplomatic Engagement

The White House also cited the recent Diwali event hosted by Trump, attended by senior Indian-American officials, as an illustration of his commitment to India.

During the celebration, Trump praised PM Modi as ‘a great person’ and expressed his admiration for the people of India.

Additionally, Leavitt emphasised the appointment of Sergio Gor as the next US Ambassador to India, noting that he would represent American interests effectively and support continued engagement with the Indian government.

Trump’s planned visit, combined with ongoing trade discussions and diplomatic gestures, reflects the strengthening of US-India relations.

The President’s admiration for Prime Minister Modi, along with tangible steps to advance bilateral cooperation, underscores the mutual interest in maintaining close ties and fostering economic, cultural, and strategic partnerships between the two countries.

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