Daijiworld Media Network – Washington

Washington, Jun 5: US President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about an early trade agreement between India and the United States, while praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and describing him as a close friend.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said relations between the two countries remain strong and indicated that ongoing trade negotiations were progressing in a positive direction.

“I like your Prime Minister a lot. He is a good friend of mine, and we get along well. We have a good relationship,” Trump said.

The US President also claimed that trade dynamics between the two countries had changed significantly in recent years.

“For years, India took advantage of the United States. They charged us tremendous tariffs and paid nothing. Now it is the exact reverse and we are making a lot of money with India. But we will get to a deal,” he said.

Trump's remarks come shortly after Indian and US officials concluded four days of trade talks in New Delhi, where discussions focused on trade in goods, customs procedures, non-tariff barriers, trade facilitation and economic security cooperation.

Both countries described the negotiations as constructive and reiterated their commitment to finalising an interim trade agreement while continuing discussions on a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement.

The comments also come amid concerns over a fresh US proposal to impose additional tariffs on imports from several economies, including India. However, officials on both sides have maintained that trade negotiations remain on track.

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor recently indicated that the agreement was nearing completion, while Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said most issues had already been resolved and only a few details remained under discussion.

With both sides signalling progress, expectations are growing that the first phase of the India-US trade pact could be announced in the near future.