Modi–Trump call highlights warm ties, cold trade reality

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with US President Donald Trump on Thursday, holding their third conversation this year even as negotiations over a bilateral trade agreement remain deadlocked.

India’s foreign ministry said the two leaders reviewed progress in bilateral relations and exchanged views on regional and global developments. The White House confirmed the call but did not provide details on the substance of the discussion.

In a post on X, Modi described the conversation as “very warm and engaging,” adding that India and the US would continue to work together for global peace, stability and prosperity.

The call comes against the backdrop of stalled trade talks that began in February, with Washington pressing New Delhi to open its agricultural market as part of a broader agreement. India has resisted those demands, citing domestic political sensitivities and food security concerns.

Negotiations suffered a setback in August after the US imposed a 53% import duty on select Indian exports, a move linked to India’s continued purchases of Russian energy. The tariffs hardened positions on both sides and slowed momentum toward a year-end deal.

Since then, trade delegations from the two countries have held multiple rounds of talks without reaching a breakthrough. Indian officials have signaled a willingness to expand market access in some sectors, while the US has maintained pressure on agriculture and trade imbalances.

Despite the lack of progress on a deal, both governments have sought to keep diplomatic engagement on track, particularly as cooperation deepens in areas such as defense, technology and supply chains.

The foreign ministry said Modi and Trump reiterated their commitment to continued engagement, though it offered no indication that the call had moved trade negotiations closer to resolution.