Gyeongju: US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that the United States is moving toward a trade agreement with India, expressing strong admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Speaking at the APEC CEOs Luncheon in Gyeongju, the final stop of his Asia tour, Trump highlighted the growing partnership between the two countries. “I am doing a trade deal with India and have great respect and love for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We have a great relationship,” he said.
Donald Trump also offered a personal compliment to Modi, calling him the “nicest-looking guy” and describing him as “tough as hell.”
Although no specific timeline was provided for the trade deal, Trump’s remarks suggest that key disagreements may be close to resolution. Washington has previously expressed concerns about India’s purchases of Russian oil, while New Delhi has sought assurances regarding US demands to open its farm sector for American imports.
The president’s comments come amid ongoing efforts to strengthen economic and strategic ties between the world’s two largest democracies. Industry leaders attending the APEC event noted that a formal agreement could unlock significant opportunities for trade, investment, and technology collaboration.
Trump’s visit to South Korea underscores the US’s interest in deepening engagement in the Asia-Pacific region, with India seen as a critical partner in both economic and geopolitical arenas.
