New Delhi – In a gesture that has stirred fresh optimism in diplomatic circles, former US President Donald Trump called Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, extending warm wishes ahead of his 75th birthday. More than just a birthday greeting, the call is widely seen as a potential turning point in strained India-US relations.
The bilateral relationship hit a rough patch after Washington doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50 percent, triggering strong responses from New Delhi. However, Trump’s personal outreach signals a possible thaw and re-engagement between the two nations.
Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the call in a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), expressing gratitude. “Thank you, my friend, President Trump, for your phone call and warm greetings on my 75th birthday,” Modi wrote. “Like you, I am also fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights.”
He also expressed India’s support for Trump’s efforts toward ending the conflict in Ukraine, saying, “We support your initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict.”
Trump reciprocated the warmth in a post on Truth Social, describing Modi as a leader doing a “tremendous job” and thanking him for backing peace efforts in the Russia-Ukraine war.
This conversation marked the first direct communication between the two leaders since the US levied steep tariffs on Indian exports — a move India deemed “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.” The increase in duties, particularly on goods linked to India’s purchase of discounted Russian oil, triggered harsh commentary from some Trump administration officials, further straining relations.
India, for its part, has maintained that its energy decisions are dictated by national interest and global market dynamics. Following the sanctions on Russia post its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, India turned to discounted Russian crude to stabilize domestic supply chains.
Coincidentally, the call came on the same day that Indian and American trade officials held a fresh round of talks in New Delhi. Assistant US Trade Representative Brendan Lynch met with Indian Commerce Ministry’s Special Secretary Rajesh Agrawal to discuss the next steps in trade negotiations.
A spokesperson from the US embassy described the meeting as “positive,” indicating willingness on both sides to continue efforts toward a mutually beneficial trade agreement.
This diplomatic push follows earlier public messages from both leaders hinting at reconciliation. Trump had recently said he looked forward to speaking with Modi and voiced confidence in resolving trade barriers. Modi, in response, emphasized the natural partnership between the two nations, noting that negotiating teams were actively working on finalizing a deal.
While several previous rounds of negotiations have ended without resolution due to disagreements over key sectors like agriculture and dairy, this renewed momentum hints at a possible breakthrough.
In the End, It’s About the People
Beyond the politics and policies, this exchange reminds us that diplomacy isn’t just about strategy — it’s about people. When two leaders take the time to engage, especially in times of friction, it sets an example of respect, dialogue, and the power of human connection in healing geopolitical wounds.
As citizens, it’s in these gestures of goodwill that we find hope — hope for renewed cooperation, mutual respect, and a shared future built on understanding.
