France: A high-level meeting between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France highlighted the growing strategic partnership between India and the United States, with both leaders expressing confidence in expanding cooperation across security, trade and regional stability.
During a joint interaction with the media, President Trump voiced strong support for India, stating that the United States would stand by New Delhi if it ever faced external aggression. He also praised Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, describing him as a determined negotiator who consistently protects India’s interests.
The remarks are being viewed as one of the strongest public endorsements of India by an American President and come at a time when both nations are enhancing collaboration in defence, maritime security and Indo-Pacific affairs.
Trade also featured prominently in the discussions, with Trump indicating that negotiations on a bilateral trade pact were nearing their final stages. He expressed optimism that both sides were close to concluding an agreement and credited Modi’s negotiating skills for shaping the talks.
Prime Minister Modi, in turn, acknowledged the efforts made by the US administration to promote stability in West Asia, saying recent diplomatic initiatives had created renewed optimism for peace in the region. He emphasised that secure maritime routes, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, remain crucial for global commerce and energy supplies.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of protecting Indian seafarers working on international shipping routes, noting that their safety should remain a priority amid evolving regional developments. His remarks came against the backdrop of recent attacks on commercial vessels that resulted in the loss of Indian lives.
Responding to the issue, President Trump expressed sympathy for the families affected by those incidents and reaffirmed the importance of cooperation between the two countries on matters concerning maritime security.
The US President further said he expects India to assume an even greater role in regional and global affairs, pointing to its growing influence on the international stage. Reflecting on his previous visits and interactions with India, Trump recalled the enthusiastic public reception he received and reiterated that the country enjoys strong goodwill in Washington.
Modi noted that bilateral ties have gained fresh momentum since his last meeting with Trump, adding that officials from both governments are working to translate their shared vision into tangible outcomes across multiple sectors.
Apart from his engagement with the US President, the Prime Minister also held discussions with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and senior European Union leaders. The meetings focused on strengthening cooperation in trade, technology, defence, clean energy, innovation and mobility while reviewing progress in India’s strategic partnerships with Europe.
The leaders also welcomed the progress made on negotiations for a free trade agreement between India and the European Union, describing it as a significant step towards expanding economic engagement.
Diplomatic observers believe the series of bilateral meetings at the G7 Summit reflects India’s growing engagement with major global powers through a balanced foreign policy approach that seeks to deepen partnerships across different regions while advancing strategic and economic interests.
The interactions are expected to further strengthen India’s cooperation with key international partners as New Delhi continues to play an increasingly prominent role in shaping discussions on global security, trade and emerging technologies.
