Trump Celebrates Modi’s 75th Birthday, Discusses Trade and Relations

US President Donald Trump emphasized his close relationship with India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a press conference held in London on September 28, 2023. This event, which included UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, served as a platform for Trump to express his gratitude for Modi’s support regarding international issues, particularly the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

During the press conference, Trump revealed that he had recently wished Modi a happy 75th birthday. “I’m very close to India. I’m very close to the Prime Minister of India. Spoke to him the other day, wished him a happy birthday. We have a very good relationship,” he remarked. Trump also noted Modi’s commendable leadership, stating he had received a “beautiful statement” from the Indian Prime Minister.

In a direct phone call, Trump conveyed his birthday wishes to Modi, thanking him for India’s collaboration in resolving the conflict in Ukraine. Following their conversation, Trump posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, expressing appreciation for Modi’s efforts. “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,” Trump wrote. He acknowledged Modi’s support in seeking a peaceful resolution to the war in Ukraine.

Modi reciprocated Trump’s sentiments on social media, referring to the US leader as “my friend.” He stated, “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.” Modi reiterated India’s support for initiatives aimed at resolving the Ukraine conflict peacefully.

The exchange of birthday wishes coincided with significant discussions on trade between the two nations. On the same day, US Trade Representative Brendan Lynch was in New Delhi to explore the next steps in bilateral trade negotiations. Lynch had met with Indian officials, including Special Secretary of the Department of Commerce Rajesh Agrawal, to advance discussions on a mutually beneficial Trade Agreement.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the meeting between Lynch and Agrawal on September 26, 2023, was productive, leading both sides to commit to intensifying efforts to conclude the ongoing trade negotiations. This dialogue reflects the broader aim of enhancing trade ties between the US and India.

Despite the positive interactions, Trump expressed disappointment regarding India’s purchase of Russian oil, which he cited as a factor in imposing tariffs. “China is paying a very large tariff right now to the United States. But I’m willing to do other things, but not when the people that I’m fighting for are buying oil from Russia,” Trump stated. He indicated that a potential reduction in oil prices could contribute to settling the conflict, stressing that the US has been actively increasing its own oil production.

As the relationship between the US and India continues to evolve, both leaders remain committed to strengthening their partnership across various sectors, including trade and international diplomacy.