Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed confidence that ongoing trade talks with the United States would unlock the "limitless potential" of the India-US partnership, shortly after President Donald Trump urged for negotiations to address long-standing "trade barriers."

In a post on X, Modi noted that India and the US are "close friends and natural partners," adding that both nations' teams are working toward an early conclusion of the talks. He further conveyed his willingness to speak directly with Trump in the coming weeks to accelerate progress.

Trump, through a Truth Social post on Tuesday, echoed similar optimism, saying he was "pleased" that negotiations were continuing and voiced certainty about achieving a "successful conclusion" beneficial to both countries.

His comments followed earlier remarks describing the Indo-US relationship as "very special," while underlining his enduring friendship with Modi. Despite acknowledging some disagreements, Trump stressed that there was "nothing to worry about" in the broader trajectory of bilateral ties.

The latest exchange comes against the backdrop of heightened economic frictions caused by Washington's imposition of steep tariffs on Indian imports—50 percent overall, with an additional 25 percent penalty tied to India's continued purchase of Russian crude oil.

The US has argued that Indian energy imports support Moscow's war effort in Ukraine, while New Delhi has maintained that its procurement decisions are rooted in affordability and energy security.

Days earlier, Modi had responded warmly to Trump’s description of the ties, saying he "deeply appreciates and fully reciprocates" the US President’s sentiments. He reaffirmed that India and the United States share a "forward-looking Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership," signalling continuity in engagement despite tariff-driven strains.

Policymakers in both New Delhi and Washington now view the outcome of these trade negotiations as critical in stabilizing economic ties while reinforcing the broader strategic partnership.

Based On ANI Report