Trump, Modi discuss trade during phone call as India, US work to repair ties

Trump, Modi discuss trade during phone call as India, US work to repair ties

US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed trade-related issues during a phone call on Tuesday as the two countries work to repair ties that have hit their lowest point in nearly two decades over unprecedented US tariffs on Indian goods.

Modi thanked Trump in a social media post on Wednesday for conveying Diwali greetings during the phone conversation and said the two sides stand united against all forms of terrorism. Trump told reporters in the White House that the two leaders discussed trade, and repeated his claim that India would not “buy much oil from Russia”.

“Thank you, President Trump, for your phone call and warm Diwali greetings. On this festival of lights, may our two great democracies continue to illuminate the world with hope and stand united against terrorism in all its forms,” Modi said on social media without giving details.

An Indian government readout said Modi “emphasised the enduring strength of the India-United States partnership” and reiterated New Delhi’s unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and fostering international cooperation.