Key Highlights of the Modi-Trump Meeting
President Donald Trump declared on Wednesday that the United States would come to India's aid if the country were attacked while Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains in office. The assurance came during their first face-to-face meeting in 16 months, held on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Evian, France. The talks aimed to mend bilateral relations that had experienced unprecedented strains over the past year.
Trump's Defence Commitment
During a joint media interaction, Trump was asked about the India-US defence relationship. He responded, “I think it’s a great [defence] relationship. I can tell you this – without having a contract, we don’t have a contract – but if they [India] were attacked, we would be there to help them.” He added, “If anybody attacks that man [Modi], we’re going to be there. Now, if there’s a new leader, I’m not sure about it…but if they’re attacked and he’s the leader, we’re going to be there to help.”
Trump emphasized his personal bond with Modi, stating, “India can do anything they want with us, we’ve the best relationship. We cannot be closer than we are…it really starts with the two of us.”
Modi Praises Trump's Role in West Asia Peace
Prime Minister Modi commended Trump's efforts to restore peace after the Iran-US conflict, saying, “Thanks to your efforts, Mr President, new hope for peace and stability in the region has been kindled and we hope this will lead to a long-standing peace in the region.” Modi stressed the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for global trade and called for joint efforts to ensure freedom of navigation.
Safety of Indian Seafarers
Modi raised the issue of Indian seafarers' safety following US attacks on three merchant vessels off Oman that killed three Indian sailors. He noted that hundreds of thousands of Indian seafarers work on global routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, and said “their safety is of utmost importance to us.” Trump responded by expressing condolences, saying, “Yeah, I do. I heard about that. It’s a rough profession…we work together on it. We love all of those people.”
Bilateral Trade and Other Issues
Trump indicated that the US and India are “very close” to a trade deal, with the US Trade Representative set to visit India for negotiations. He also offered more opportunities for skilled Indian professionals and hinted at increased energy sales. On the US waiver on sanctions on Russian oil ending, Trump said the administration was monitoring the fall in global oil prices.
What the Meeting Means for India-US Ties
The meeting marked a significant step in repairing ties that had soured due to Trump's 50% tariffs on Indian exports and the seafarer deaths. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to the India-US comprehensive global strategic partnership, focusing on trade, energy, defence, technology, and people-to-people ties. External affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that both sides agreed to “promote peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Trump say about US help if India is attacked?
Trump stated that if India is attacked while PM Modi is the leader, the US would be there to help, though there is no formal defence contract.
Why did Modi and Trump meet at the G7 Summit?
The meeting was their first in-person interaction in 16 months, aimed at repairing bilateral ties strained by US tariffs and the deaths of Indian sailors in US strikes.
What did Modi raise regarding Indian seafarers?
Modi emphasized the safety of Indian seafarers after US attacks on merchant vessels off Oman, and pressed for measures to ensure their security under the upcoming peace deal.
What is the status of the India-US trade deal?
Trump said the two sides are 'very close' to a trade deal, with the US Trade Representative set to visit India for further negotiations.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com