Trump’s Birthday Call to PM Modi Signals Positive Shift in India-US Ties, Says Analyst
US President Donald Trump called Prime Minister Narendra Modi to wish him on his 75th birthday, a gesture that analysts say could help reset strained relations between New Delhi and Washington.
Michael Kugelman, Director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Centre, said on X that the call validates India’s decision to “take the high road” despite months of criticism from the White House. He added that the real breakthrough in bilateral ties will hinge on progress in trade negotiations, particularly a bilateral trade agreement (BTA).
Kugelman noted that although Trump’s call was symbolic, it strengthens India’s calm approach amid tariff disputes. “Talks have resumed this week, but it won’t be easy to reach a deal given US intransigence and Indian political pressures,” he said.
Trump, in his Truth Social post, praised Modi’s leadership, thanking him for supporting efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Modi, in turn, expressed gratitude for the greetings and reaffirmed India’s support for peaceful resolutions.
The exchange marks a thaw in ties after recent trade frictions and comes as negotiators from both sides continue talks on the proposed trade pact. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal recently confirmed that the first tranche of the agreement is expected to be finalised by November 2025.
