London, September 2025 – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again placed his relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the global spotlight, calling him a “very close friend” while speaking during ongoing trade talks in the United Kingdom. His remarks not only underlined the warmth of the Modi-Trump camaraderie but also drew attention to India’s growing stature in international affairs.
Strong Words of Friendship
At a press briefing in London, Trump lauded Modi as a leader who has transformed India’s global profile. “I have always been very close to Prime Minister Modi. He is a tremendous leader who has done remarkable things for India,” Trump said. This acknowledgment was more than a personal compliment—it was a reminder of how personal ties between leaders can complement diplomatic and economic relations.
Over the years, the bond between Trump and Modi has been highlighted at several high-profile events, from the “Howdy Modi” rally in Houston in 2019 to the “Namaste Trump” event in Ahmedabad in 2020. Each showcased the political and cultural synergy between the two leaders, both of whom enjoy significant popularity among their respective diasporas.
Context: UK Trade Talks with Global Ripples
Trump’s visit to the UK was primarily focused on trade negotiations with British leaders. However, his comments on Modi came as India continues to be a major talking point in global economic and strategic circles. For Washington, deepening engagement with India has long been considered a critical counterbalance to China, particularly in the Indo-Pacific.
By mentioning Modi during talks that were not directly centered on India, Trump highlighted New Delhi’s growing importance in shaping international trade and security policies. Analysts believe this was also a subtle signal that U.S.-India relations will remain a top priority, regardless of who leads the White House.
India’s Growing Strategic Role
India’s economy has been among the fastest-growing in the world in recent years, attracting investments from Western powers seeking to diversify supply chains and reduce dependency on China. With its expanding digital economy, robust defense sector, and renewable energy ambitions, India is being courted as a pivotal partner in global growth.
Trump’s reaffirmation of friendship with Modi is likely to be read as an endorsement of this trajectory. By framing Modi as both a “close friend” and a leader with vision, Trump positioned India not just as an ally but as a central player in future trade and security alignments.
Diaspora and Political Influence
The Indian diaspora also forms an important backdrop to Trump’s remarks. In both the U.S. and UK, the Indian community wields significant economic and political influence. Recognizing Modi’s popularity among these groups can translate into goodwill and, in turn, political capital. Trump’s comments may therefore have been aimed at engaging not just India as a nation but also its diaspora abroad.
What Was Discussed
While no fresh trade agreements were announced during Trump’s UK visit, officials confirmed that both the U.S. and India remain committed to expanding cooperation in sectors such as defense, digital trade, and clean energy. The discussions, though informal, reinforced the idea that India’s partnership will remain central to U.S. global strategy.
The Power of Personal Diplomacy
The Modi-Trump relationship exemplifies how personal diplomacy can sometimes accelerate bilateral ties. While institutional mechanisms form the backbone of foreign policy, the warmth between two leaders often plays a role in building trust and unlocking opportunities. For instance, the defense and technology agreements between India and the U.S. during Trump’s presidency were significantly bolstered by his personal outreach to Modi.
Looking Ahead
As the world watches shifts in leadership across major democracies, one thing is clear: India will continue to be at the center of global conversations. Trump’s reaffirmation of his friendship with Modi in London may not immediately alter trade policies, but it strengthens the perception of India as a vital partner on the world stage.
For now, the Modi-Trump camaraderie remains a symbol of how personal trust can complement strategic necessity, creating a partnership that resonates not only in New Delhi and Washington but also across the globe.
