Washington — US President Donald Trump has signaled renewed optimism in ongoing trade negotiations with India, stating that his administration is working to resolve key trade barriers and that he expects to speak with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the coming weeks.
In a post on social media, Trump expressed confidence in reaching a mutually beneficial agreement, describing the United States and India as “Great Countries” and emphasizing that he sees “no difficulty” in concluding a deal.
“I feel certain that there will be no difficulty in coming to a successful conclusion for both of our Great Countries,” Trump said.
Prime Minister Modi echoed the sentiment in a social media post on Wednesday, calling the US a “close friend and natural partner.” He confirmed that negotiating teams from both sides are actively working to finalize the trade discussions.
“I am also looking forward to speaking with President Trump. We will work together to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for both our people,” Modi said.
The statements come after months of tense trade talks that have strained US-India ties. Last week, Trump criticized India for its delayed offer to reduce tariffs on US goods to zero, claiming such a move should have come “years ago.” His administration recently doubled tariffs on Indian imports to 50%, citing India’s continued oil trade with Russia amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.
India’s chief economic adviser warned this week that the increased US tariffs could shave 0.5 percentage points off the country’s GDP in 2025.
Meanwhile, The Financial Times reported Tuesday that Trump is also urging the European Union to impose 100% tariffs on goods imported from India and China, escalating global trade tensions.
Read more: Modi, Xi Pledge to Improve Ties Amid U.S. Tariffs, Border Tensions
Despite the challenges, both Washington and New Delhi appear committed to finding common ground. Two-way goods trade between the US and India totaled $129 billion in 2024, with the US running a $45.8 billion trade deficit, according to US Census Bureau data.
As the two leaders prepare for direct talks, expectations are rising for a breakthrough that could stabilize one of the world’s most important bilateral economic relationships.
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