US President Trump Holds ‘Great Respect’ For PM Modi, Says White House

The White House has reiterated President Donald Trump’s deep respect for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing the India–US relationship as ‘strong, positive, and growing’.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, speaking to reporters on Tuesday, said that President Trump and Prime Minister Modi speak ‘pretty frequently’ and maintain a ‘very warm and respectful relationship’.

“The President feels very positive and strongly about the bilateral relationship,” Leavitt said, noting that Trump has ‘great respect’ for Prime Minister Modi.

She added that the close communication between the two leaders reflects their shared commitment to strengthening strategic and economic cooperation.

Highlighting cultural diplomacy as a cornerstone of this relationship, Leavitt referred to the recent Diwali celebration hosted by President Trump in the Oval Office.

“He recently spoke to Prime Minister Modi when he celebrated Diwali with senior Indian American officials here at the White House,” she said.

During the event, held on 21 October, Trump described PM Modi as ‘a great person’ and expressed his admiration for the people of India.

The celebration was attended by Indian Ambassador Vinay Kwatra, newly appointed US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, FBI Director Kash Patel, and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard.

Prominent business figures from the Indian diaspora were also present.

Moreover, President Trump lit the traditional diya, calling it ‘a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness’ and extending his ‘warmest wishes to the people of India’.

Strengthening Diplomatic and Trade Engagement

Leavitt emphasised that Trump’s appointment of Sergio Gor as the new US Ambassador to India demonstrates the administration’s commitment to furthering bilateral cooperation.

“We have a great ambassador in Mr Gor, who will represent our country very well,” she said.

On trade matters, the Press Secretary confirmed that discussions between the two nations remain active and constructive.

“The President and his trade team continue to be in earnest discussions with India on that topic,” she revealed.

The White House’s remarks underscore a continued focus on deepening strategic, cultural, and economic ties between Washington and New Delhi.

With frequent dialogue between the two leaders and ongoing collaboration in key areas such as trade, technology, and defence, the US–India partnership continues to gain strength, rooted in mutual respect and shared democratic values.

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