At G7, Trump Lauds PM Modi Despite Recent Tensions Over Strike and Trade Disputes

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday projected a warm and unified front with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G7 summit, even as recent tensions between.

The two countries over trade disputes, oil sanctions and a military strike involving Indian mariners continue to strain relations. The leaders met on the sidelines of the summit in France, where Modi was invited as a guest of French President Emmanuel Macron.

During the interaction, Trump repeatedly praised Modi, calling him a close friend and describing him as a tough negotiator, while insisting that there was no strain in the bilateral relationship.

“We have the best relationship. We cannot be closer than we are,” Trump said, adding that ties between the two countries were “very strong” and rooted in direct personal rapport between the leaders.

He also spoke optimistically about ongoing trade negotiations, suggesting that a deal between the two countries was “very close” despite months of friction over tariffs and India’s energy purchases from Russia.

The meeting took place against the backdrop of heightened sensitivities after the deaths of three Indian mariners in a US military strike in the Gulf region earlier this month. The incident has been formally raised by New Delhi, with India stressing the need to ensure the safety of seafarers operating in international waters.

Prime Minister Modi, during the discussions, flagged concerns about maritime security and the protection of Indian sailors, underscoring the importance of safeguarding those working in global shipping routes.

Trump responded by acknowledging the risks faced by seafarers, describing it as a “tough profession,” and said both sides were working together on ensuring their safety.

Despite underlying tensions, both leaders sought to emphasise continuity in the relationship, recalling earlier phases of strong engagement, including high-profile public events during Trump’s first term in office.

Trade remains one of the key pressure points, with the US imposing tariffs on Indian exports in recent years amid disagreements over energy imports from Russia. However, both sides have signalled willingness to continue negotiations toward a broader agreement.

The G7 meeting marked one of the most closely watched engagements between the two leaders in recent months, as they attempt to balance strategic cooperation with unresolved economic and geopolitical differences.