Trump says India-US trade deal likely soon, calls PM Modi a 'good friend'

US President Donald Trump has expressed confidence that the United States and India will soon conclude a trade agreement, describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "good friend" amid ongoing negotiations between the two countries.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said he believed a deal would be reached because of the strong relationship between the two leaders. "I like your Prime Minister a lot. He is a good friend of mine," Trump said while responding to a question on trade negotiations with India.

Trump also reiterated his long-standing criticism of India's tariff regime, claiming that India had imposed high tariffs on American companies for years. He said the trade dynamic had changed and asserted that the United States was now benefiting more from its economic relationship with India.

The remarks come as officials from both countries continue efforts to finalise a bilateral trade agreement. A US delegation led by Assistant US Trade Representative Brendan Lynch recently concluded four days of talks in New Delhi, where negotiators discussed market access, customs procedures, non-tariff barriers, trade facilitation measures and economic security cooperation.

India's Commerce Ministry said the discussions were conducted in a "constructive and positive" atmosphere, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to concluding a mutually beneficial agreement aimed at strengthening trade and economic ties.

The negotiations have gained significance amid fresh tariff concerns. Earlier this week, the US proposed additional tariffs on imports from several countries, including India, under a Section 301 investigation related to forced-labour concerns. India has said it remains engaged with the US on the issue while continuing trade talks.

Officials familiar with the negotiations have indicated that discussions are in an advanced stage, though some issues remain unresolved. Both sides are seeking an agreement that would improve market access while addressing concerns related to tariffs and trade barriers.

India and the US are among each other's major trading partners, and the proposed agreement is expected to have implications for sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, technology and services. A successful conclusion to the talks would mark another step in the growing economic partnership between the two countries.