US President Donald Trump has reaffirmed Washington’s strategic partnership with New Delhi, calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a “great friend” and India an ancient civilisation and a key Indo-Pacific partner.
The remarks were shared on X by the US Embassy in India, underscoring the growing warmth in bilateral ties amid ongoing talks on trade, defence and regional security.
“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,” Trump said.
"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
Trump’s praise follows a recent conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the US President, during which the two leaders discussed defence collaboration, advanced technology partnerships and regional security challenges. According to official readouts, the call focused on strengthening cooperation in defence manufacturing, emerging technologies and ensuring a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific.
The outreach also coincides with progress on the trade front. India and the US are understood to be close to an interim trade arrangement aimed at lowering reciprocal tariffs, even as both sides have indicated that they do not want to rush negotiations by setting artificial timelines. Commerce officials have said talks are moving forward steadily, with the focus on addressing market access issues and reducing friction in key sectors.
A delegation led by Deputy US Trade Representative (USTR) Rick Switzer-led was in New Delhi from December 9-11 during which discussions were held on the framework deal as well as the broader Bilateral Trade Agreement.
India has increasingly been positioned by Washington as a central pillar of its Indo-Pacific strategy, with US officials repeatedly highlighting New Delhi’s role in maintaining regional stability, maritime security and resilient supply chains. The Quad grouping, which brings together India, the US, Japan and Australia, remains a key platform for this cooperation.
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