EVIAN, FRANCE — U.S. President Donald Trump said on Wednesday he had a “very good” conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G7 summit and that the two countries are working on trade deals, with Trump calling Modi a “tough negotiator” and saying he plans to visit India “sometime in the future.”
The leaders’ meeting, their first since Modi’s February 2025 visit to Washington, comes amid strained ties over tariffs, India’s purchase of Russian oil and heightened U.S. engagement with Pakistan. Washington has imposed high duties on Indian goods, and recent incidents, including the deaths of three Indian seafarers in attacks on commercial vessels in the Gulf, have further frayed relations.
Modi told reporters the safety of Indian seafarers working along key maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz is of “utmost importance” and urged that the issue be prioritised in implementing the U.S. agreement with Iran. Trump acknowledged the risks faced by sailors and said the two countries “work together” on the matter, offering condolences and praise for seafarers.
On defence, Trump said the United States would come to India’s aid if attacked and affirmed his personal support for Modi, adding pointedly that his commitment might differ under another Indian leader. Trump also said he had agreed to share trade-related discussions and that both sides aim to resolve outstanding differences on tariffs.