US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said he had a “wonderful” phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during which he extended birthday greetings to his “friend” and thanked him for his support on ending the Russia-Ukraine war.
The call, which came a day before Prime Minister Modi turned 75, is being viewed as a symbolic gesture by Washington to ease tensions with New Delhi amid strains over tariffs and trade.
The Commerce Ministry on Tuesday said the discussions with visiting US Chief Negotiator Brendan Lynch on the proposed bilateral trade agreement were positive and forward looking.
It also came hours after India acknowledged the day-long meeting with the US officials and said both sides decided to intensify efforts to achieve an early conclusion of a mutually beneficial trade agreement.
“Just had a wonderful phone call with my friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I wished him a very Happy Birthday! He is doing a tremendous job. Narendra: Thank you for your support on ending the War between Russia and Ukraine!” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform.
In response, PM Modi posted on X, “Thank you, my friend, President Trump, for your phone call and warm greetings on my 75th birthday.”
“Like you, I am also fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights. We support your initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict,” he added.
