U.S. President Donald Trump has announced plans to visit India in the near future following a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G7 Summit in France. The development signals a potential easing of recent diplomatic frictions between the two nations.

According to a BBC report, during his meeting with Prime Minister Modi on Wednesday (June 17) in Évian-les-Bains, France, Trump stated that he would travel to India at a future date. He also indicated that a bilateral trade agreement between Washington and New Delhi is nearing finalization.

Tensions had previously escalated between the two allies over trade tariffs. Relations came under strain last year after Trump announced plans to impose additional duties on Indian goods.

The situation was further complicated following a recent US military operation amid the conflict with Iran, during which three Indian sailors were killed in the Gulf of Oman. During the meeting, Modi raised concerns with Trump regarding the safety and security of Indian maritime personnel.

Trade Friction and Defense Assurances
While the two leaders discussed the pending trade deal, negotiations had encountered hurdles due to a new US import tax initiative aimed at preventing forced labor.

Speaking to reporters, Trump characterized Modi as a "tough negotiator" and expressed his eagerness to visit India soon.

Trump also addressed the defense partnership between India and the United States, affirming that Washington would stand by New Delhi if India were to face external aggression.

"If anyone attacks that man, we will be there," Trump said, referring to Modi, though he declined to comment on how the dynamic might shift under potential future leadership change.

Geopolitical Undercurrents and Energy Concerns
Prior to the G7 Summit, several issues had caused unease in bilateral ties. New Delhi was particularly displeased by Trump’s earlier offers to mediate the Kashmir dispute and his commentary regarding a ceasefire between India and Pakistan.

India has consistently maintained its stance that it will not accept third-party intervention on the Kashmir issue.

Additionally, the fallout from the war with Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz featured in the discussions.

India relies on imports for nearly 90 percent of its crude oil requirements, raising severe concerns in New Delhi over domestic energy security.

The meeting between Trump and Modi is being viewed as a fresh turning point for US-India relations. Officials from both countries are scheduled to meet in New Delhi next week to hold further discussions on the trade pact.
Source: BBC