Trump Praises PM Modi Amid India-US Tariff Talks: “A Very Smart Man and a Great Friend”
As India and the United States prepare for key trade negotiations under the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) framework, former US President Donald Trump praises PM Modi once again, calling him a “very smart man” and a “great friend” while expressing optimism over future trade developments.
Trump Praises PM Modi During US Attorney Swearing-In
In a public statement during the swearing-in ceremony of New Jersey’s US attorney, Alina Habba, Donald Trump praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his leadership and personal friendship. The moment came amid ongoing discussions between the two countries on tariffs and mutual trade reform.
“Prime Minister Modi was here just recently, and we’ve always been very good friends,” Trump said. “India is one of the highest tariffing nations in the world… They’re very smart. He (PM Modi) is a very smart man and a great friend of mine.”
This isn’t the first time Trump praises PM Modi, but the timing is notable, as both countries move toward finalizing the first phase of a broader trade agreement.
Strengthening Trade Ties Between India and the US
Trump praises PM Modi in the context of India’s February 2025 visit to Washington, where both leaders initiated talks for a multi-sector Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). The agreement, expected to be finalized by Fall 2025, aims to reduce tariff barriers, address trade imbalances, and facilitate mutual investments.
According to Trump, “We had very good talks. I think it’s going to work out very well between India and our country. And I want to say—you have a great prime minister.”
As Trump praises PM Modi, it sets a positive diplomatic tone for what has historically been a complex relationship around tariffs, especially concerning sectors like automobiles, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.
Tariff Talks: India on Trump’s Radar Again
Even as Trump praises PM Modi, he hasn’t softened his stance on India’s tariff structure. The former President has repeatedly highlighted that India imposes some of the highest tariffs globally, particularly on imported vehicles.
“India charges us auto tariffs higher than 100 percent,” he remarked, citing one of the key sticking points in the US-India trade relationship. While Trump praises PM Modi on leadership and friendship, he made it clear that trade reciprocity remains a non-negotiable principle under his proposed economic policy.
In fact, during a joint session of the US Congress earlier this week, Trump confirmed that the 25% reciprocal tariff on all imported vehicles will take effect from April 2, 2025.
Trump’s Policy Shift: Reciprocation is the New Normal
While Trump praises PM Modi, he also defended his broader economic policy, which he calls “fair trade through reciprocity.” This policy aims to equalize the trade playing field by matching tariffs imposed by other countries on American goods.
“We will soon impose reciprocal tariffs—they charge us, we charge them,” Trump said. “We want to be fair; hence, reciprocal. We have never done that. We were getting ready to do it until COVID hit.”
Trump’s approach underscores a consistent message: even as Trump praises PM Modi and reaffirms the strong India-US friendship, trade fairness must be institutionalized.
Flashback: Past Criticism Balanced by Mutual Respect
This is not the first instance where Trump praises PM Modi publicly. Despite moments of tension over tariffs and trade policies, Trump and Modi have maintained strong personal and diplomatic ties throughout their leadership.
Previously, Trump had labeled India a “tariff king” and criticized the country for being a tough place to do business. However, his admiration for Modi as a leader has remained unchanged.
Trump praises PM Modi as someone who “understands business” and is capable of navigating India through global economic changes. This duality — tough negotiation mixed with personal admiration — has defined the nature of the Indo-US relationship under Trump’s influence.
Impact on Business and Global Trade Relations
As Trump praises PM Modi, global investors and businesses are watching closely. The initiation of a new BTA framework could open doors for smoother trade flows, better intellectual property protections, and improved ease of doing business between the two nations.
Sectors likely to benefit include:
- Automobile manufacturing (if tariff tensions ease)
- Pharmaceuticals and generics
- Tech and IT services
- Defense partnerships and aerospace collaboration
If Trump’s influence on future policy shapes a Republican-led administration, the positive remarks — where Trump praises PM Modi — could pave the way for faster bilateral engagement.
Trump’s Broader Trade Offensive
Trump’s new round of tariffs, however, isn’t exclusive to India. His administration announced that similar reciprocal tariffs will apply to goods from China, Brazil, Mexico, and even the European Union.
“We’ve been ripped off for decades by nearly every country on earth,” he declared. The upcoming tariff policy aims to encourage domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign goods.
Yet, amidst all these trade offensive statements, the fact that Trump praises PM Modi so openly suggests that India remains a trusted strategic partner — even during tough economic negotiations.
Trump Praises PM Modi: A Calculated Signal
In diplomatic circles, when Trump praises PM Modi repeatedly during sensitive trade talks, it is seen as a deliberate gesture. The praise helps maintain goodwill while preparing to push for tougher trade terms.
As bilateral trade surpasses $200 billion, and India grows as a global economic player, the US sees value in strong, respectful negotiation — something Trump’s comments clearly reflect.
By saying “you have a great prime minister,” Trump not only strengthens his personal rapport with Modi but also reassures Indian stakeholders of a stable trade relationship going forward.
What Lies Ahead?
With the reciprocal tariff policy taking effect in April and a BTA framework expected by Fall 2025, trade between the two nations is poised for both challenges and opportunities.
As Trump praises PM Modi and continues to advocate for fair but firm trade, the next few months will be crucial in shaping how these two democracies engage economically.
Investors, exporters, and manufacturers in both countries should keep a close eye on the developments — especially now that Trump praises PM Modi while preparing for what could be the next wave of global trade reforms.
When Trump praises PM Modi, it’s more than a diplomatic compliment — it’s a strategic statement. As tariffs and trade policies shift, the balance between friendship and fairness will define Indo-US relations in the years ahead.
