US President Donald Trump announced that he plans to visit India soon. He called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a “great man” and a “dear friend.” His remarks suggest improving ties between both nations after trade tensions.

Trump told reporters in the Oval Office on Thursday, “He’s a friend of mine, and we speak, and he wants me to go there, and we’ll figure that out, I’ll go.” He said trade talks with India are going “very well.”

When asked if he might visit next year, Trump said, “It could be, yeah.” However, he did not give a date for the trip.

Tariffs Strained India-US Ties

Tensions between India and the US grew earlier this year when Trump imposed 50 percent tariffs on Indian goods. The move aimed to pressure New Delhi to reduce its oil imports from Russia amid the Ukraine war.

These tariffs added to existing trade friction. The US has long criticized India’s high import duties and restrictions on American goods.

Signs of Better Relations

In recent weeks, Trump said PM Modi promised to cut down Russian oil purchases. He also expressed optimism about progress in trade talks.

Trump often praises Modi’s leadership and says both leaders share a strong personal bond. Still, it is uncertain how long this positive phase will last.

Challenges in the Alliance

The relationship faced strain when Trump claimed he helped broker peace during a four-day conflict between India and Pakistan. The remark drew cautious reactions in New Delhi.

India also remains uneasy as Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif continue frequent visits to Washington. These developments have made India more cautious about the US partnership.

Previous and Expected Visits

Earlier reports suggested Trump might attend the Quad Summit in India this year, but the trip did not happen. Trump last visited India in February 2020 during his first presidential term. He received a grand welcome in Ahmedabad with the ‘Namaste Trump’ event. Later, PM Modi visited Texas for the ‘Howdy Modi’ event in Houston, highlighting their growing friendship.