Trump Escalates Feud With Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, Calls For Restraining Order

United States President Donald Trump has intensified his feud with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni by calling for a “restraining order” against her. On Sunday, he posted a photograph with Meloni on Truth Social captioned, “RESTRAINING ORDER NEEDED.”

This latest escalation follows Trump’s earlier criticism of NATO members, particularly Meloni, for not joining American efforts against what he described as Iran’s “very serious Nuclear Threat.” On June 22, he accused allies of failing to support the United States despite decades of American security commitments.

Trump expressed frustration over the reluctance of some allies to directly involve themselves in countering Iran. His remarks singled out Meloni, whose relationship with him has soured since their meeting at the 52nd G7 Summit in France.

The public spat began when Trump claimed Meloni begged him for a photograph. Meloni firmly rejected this, stating, “Neither I nor Italy ever beg.” Her response was widely seen as a defence of her dignity and Italy’s sovereignty.

Since Trump assumed office, Europe has been thrust into political turmoil. He has repeatedly targeted traditional allies, including French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Meloni has now become the latest leader to face his ire.

Carlo Fidanza, a politician from Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party, described her as kind and warm but unyielding when defending her beliefs or her country’s dignity. He emphasised that while she is reasonable, she can be tough if crossed.

Meloni’s political style combines bombast with pragmatism. This approach has allowed her to deliver Italy something rare among European peers: a stable government. Her Brothers of Italy party advocates traditional family values, yet she has avoided being confined to a rigid conservative mould.

She has instead offered more moderate positions, including pro-NATO, pro-American, and fiscally prudent policies. She has explicitly distanced herself from her far-right past, presenting herself as a pragmatic leader aligned with Western institutions.

Despite the current tensions, Italy remains an American ally. Meloni herself has previously remarked that international relationships do not begin or end based on who holds power at a given moment. She likened foreign policy to being far more complex than a reality dating show, saying, “We sometimes talk about foreign policy as if it were ‘Temptation Island.’ Foreign policy is more complex than that.”

Her comments underscore the enduring nature of alliances, even amid personal disputes between leaders. The clash between Trump and Meloni highlights the fragility of political relationships but also the resilience of institutional ties between Italy and the United States.

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Japan PM Sanae Takaichi To Visit India, Likely To Hold Summit Talks With PM Modi In Delhi From July 1–3

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is expected to make her first official visit to India from 1–3 July 2026, with the summit now most likely to be held in New Delhi due to logistical constraints, despite earlier discussions about Guwahati.

The visit will feature high-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accompanied by a large Japanese business delegation, and will focus on strengthening economic, technological, and security cooperation.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is scheduled to arrive in India next month for her inaugural official visit since assuming office in late 2025. The visit is planned between 1 and 3 July. Initially, Guwahati in Assam was considered as a possible venue, but sources have confirmed that logistical challenges and her tight domestic schedule make New Delhi the more feasible location.

Officials explained that the narrow window between her arrival and departure, combined with the complexities of arranging a summit outside the capital, led to the decision to hold the meetings in Delhi. This arrangement also allows both sides to incorporate programming elements designed to strengthen bilateral ties.

Last week, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had publicly stated that there was a possibility of the Japanese Prime Minister visiting Guwahati on 1 July to hold summit-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He reiterated this possibility in a post on X, highlighting Guwahati’s potential role in hosting the summit. Japanese media, including Nikkei, had also reported that Takaichi might travel to Assam, accompanied by representatives from more than 50 Japanese companies and organisations.

Reports from NHK indicate that during her meeting with Prime Minister Modi, the two leaders are expected to discuss concrete measures for cooperation in diverse fields, including security and the economy.

These discussions will build upon the Japan-India joint vision for the next decade, which was announced during Modi’s visit to Japan last year.

The agenda is likely to include collaboration in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, automobiles, defence, and supply-chain resilience, reflecting shared concerns over Indo-Pacific stability.

The visit comes shortly after Modi and Takaichi met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France earlier this month. Modi emphasised that India and Japan will continue to deepen ties across multiple sectors, with trade and investment remaining priority areas. Japan remains one of India’s most significant development partners, with investments in high-speed rail, infrastructure, and manufacturing.

Sanae Takaichi, a protégé of the late Shinzo Abe, is Japan’s first woman Prime Minister. Her leadership carries symbolic continuity, as Abe himself was scheduled to visit Guwahati in December 2019 for summit talks with Modi, but his trip was postponed. Takaichi’s visit thus represents both a strategic and symbolic milestone in India-Japan relations.

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US Trade Envoy Jamieson Greer Arrives In India To Advance Interim Trade Deal

US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has arrived in New Delhi to advance discussions on the interim trade agreement between India and the United States. His visit marks a significant step in the broader negotiations towards a comprehensive Bilateral Trade Agreement that has been under discussion since early 2025.

The Office of the US Trade Representative confirmed that Greer will meet with India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, along with other senior officials. The talks will focus on the interim agreement that was first outlined in the joint statement issued by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump in February this year.

The timing of Greer’s visit is notable, coming shortly after the meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France last week.

During that meeting, President Trump remarked that India and the United States were very close to finalising the trade deal. He also praised Modi as a tough negotiator and emphasised the strong personal rapport he shares with the Indian leader.

The discussions in New Delhi build upon negotiator-level talks held from 2–4 June, which laid the groundwork for this week’s high-level engagement. These earlier meetings were aimed at ironing out technical details and aligning positions on key trade issues, ensuring that the framework for the interim agreement could be finalised during Greer’s visit.

The interim agreement is seen as a bridge towards the larger Bilateral Trade Agreement, which both sides have been working on since February 2025. The framework is expected to address tariff concerns, market access, and broader trade facilitation measures, while also providing clarity on issues such as Section 301 investigations initiated by the United States.

Beyond trade, the visit underscores the growing strategic partnership between India and the United States. Both countries have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation across defence, technology, energy, and commerce.

The interim agreement is therefore not only a commercial milestone but also a strategic signal of deeper alignment between the two democracies.

Greer’s engagements in New Delhi are expected to give final shape to the interim deal, paving the way for its announcement in the near future. The outcome of these talks will be closely watched as it sets the tone for the next phase of negotiations on the comprehensive Bilateral Trade Agreement.

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Meloni Rebukes Trump Over Attacks, Says 'My Popularity Is None of Your Concern...Focus On Yours'

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has sharply rebuked United States President Donald Trump following his latest criticisms, describing them as “constant, unprovoked attacks.” The confrontation escalated after Trump alleged that Meloni had “begged” for a photo-op and accused her of poor foreign policy choices.

In a strongly worded Instagram post, Meloni rejected Trump’s claims about her domestic popularity and reliance on his friendship. She emphasised that her political standing is rooted in her ability to defend Italy’s national interest, not in her relationship with the American President.

She declared that being Trump’s friend had not helped her popularity and insisted that her commitment remained to Italy alone.

Meloni also addressed Trump’s grievances regarding the use of American military bases in Italy. She clarified that their use is strictly governed by pre-existing agreements which her government has consistently respected. She stressed that these terms would not be violated under her leadership, underscoring Italy’s sovereignty.

Her statement concluded with a direct dismissal of Trump’s commentary on her political standing. “My popularity is none of your concern,” she wrote, adding pointedly, “I suggest you focus on yours.”

This exchange followed Trump’s earlier accusations that Meloni sought to be “friends again” after the United States’ military defeat of Iran, allegedly to boost her domestic approval ratings. Trump reiterated his claim that Meloni repeatedly asked for a photograph with him during the recent G7 summit in France, portraying her actions as desperate attempts to regain political traction.

In an aggressive post on Truth Social, Trump asserted that Meloni was “doing poorly in Italy” and accused her of trying to pivot back to him for political gain. He criticised Italy’s refusal to allow the United States access to its airfields and runways during military operations against Iran, calling it a major logistical inconvenience despite America’s financial contributions to NATO and Italy’s defence.

Trump further claimed that Meloni’s refusal to support American objectives in preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons demonstrated her lack of alignment with US interests. He insisted that after the US had defeated Iran militarily, Meloni sought renewed friendship only to improve her domestic numbers, a request he rejected outright.

The tension deepened when Trump, in an interview with Italian broadcaster La7, claimed that Meloni had “begged” him for a photo during the G7 summit and that he had agreed only because he “felt sorry for her.” These remarks triggered widespread condemnation across the Italian political spectrum, with many viewing them as disrespectful and damaging to bilateral ties.

The confrontation highlights a growing rift between Rome and Washington, with Meloni determined to assert Italy’s sovereignty and Trump openly criticising her leadership.

The fallout has cast a shadow over Italy-US relations, particularly in the context of NATO cooperation and the broader geopolitical challenges surrounding Iran.

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Trump Calls Modi 'Classic', Names Him As One of Two Greatest World Leaders He Admires

US President Donald Trump has described Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping as “classics” among global leaders, placing them at the top of his list of admired figures on the world stage.

Speaking during an interview on The Axios Show, Trump was asked to name the two leaders he most admires internationally. He responded by highlighting Xi Jinping first and then Prime Minister Modi, praising both for their leadership styles, political strength, and global influence.

Trump elaborated on his admiration for Xi Jinping, agreeing with the interviewer’s suggestion that Xi’s leadership was formidable. He then turned to Modi, stating, “Well, I think Modi is very good.”

He emphasised Modi’s strategic approach to governance, noting that the Indian leader has avoided wars, which Trump described as “smart.” He pointed out India’s vast population of 1.5 billion people, underlining that India is now the largest country in terms of population, and credited Modi for steering such a massive nation with stability and strength.

The US President went further, calling both Modi and Xi “classics,” and remarked that if a film were to be made about either of them, Hollywood would struggle to find an actor capable of portraying their stature.

He praised Modi’s long tenure in office, highlighting that the Indian Prime Minister has completed over 12 years in power despite India’s historically turbulent political landscape. Trump contrasted Modi’s calm public demeanour with his toughness in private, describing him as a leader who maintains composure while being “a very tough guy.”

Trump reflected on India’s political history, noting that before Modi’s rise, leadership in the country often changed hands quickly, sometimes within months or a year.

He stressed that Modi’s ability to remain in power for more than a decade demonstrated solidity and resilience.

He added that he has known Modi personally for years and reiterated his view that Modi combines calmness with toughness, a rare blend in global politics.

On the economic front, Trump credited his administration with improving trade relations between the United States and India. He claimed that under his leadership, the two countries now conduct “fair business,” suggesting that previous trade arrangements were less balanced. He underscored the importance of India-US economic ties, portraying them as a cornerstone of his foreign policy achievements.

In broader terms, Trump spoke about global leadership styles, contrasting the temperaments of different leaders. He reiterated that both Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi stand out for their influence and authority, describing them as figures who command respect and shape the international order.

His remarks reinforced the perception of Modi as a leader admired not only within India but also by influential figures abroad, while also acknowledging Xi’s global stature.

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PM Modi Highlights India’s Heritage And Wellness Through Traditional Gifts To G7 Leaders

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his participation in the 52nd G7 Summit in Evian, France, presented a carefully curated selection of gifts to fellow leaders.

These included Nagauri Ashwagandha, Ramban Honey, Lakadong Turmeric, and a Banarasi silk stole. Each gift was chosen to highlight India’s cultural heritage, sustainable farming practices, and centuries-old craftsmanship.

Ramban Honey, produced in the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, is derived from Himalayan flora and wildflowers. Its distinctive taste and nutritional profile are enriched by natural antioxidants, enzymes, and bioactive compounds. Local beekeepers employ traditional, environmentally sensitive methods, making Ramban Honey a reflection of biodiversity, cultural heritage, and harmonious beekeeping traditions.

Lakadong Turmeric, grown in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya, is renowned for its exceptionally high curcumin content. The fertile red soil, heavy rainfall, and traditional farming practices contribute to its quality. Awarded a Geographical Indication tag, it represents both scientific interest in natural health benefits and the cultural heritage of Meghalaya’s farming communities. Widely used in Indian cooking and Ayurveda, it embodies sustainable agriculture and a deep connection with nature.

Nagauri Ashwagandha, cultivated in Rajasthan’s Nagaur district, is valued for its rich withanolide content, a result of the region’s arid climate and sandy soil. Recognised with a Geographical Indication tag, it holds cultural and agricultural importance. In Ayurveda, Ashwagandha is considered a Rasayana herb, supporting vitality, immunity, and mental clarity. Today, it is studied globally for its adaptogenic properties, bridging traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with modern wellness trends while supporting rural livelihoods.

The Banarasi Silk Stole, handwoven in Varanasi, is crafted from fine silk and adorned with intricate zari work. Its motifs, often inspired by nature, reflect centuries of refined weaving techniques passed down through generations. Recognised with a Geographical Indication tag, Banarasi silk is one of India’s most prestigious textile traditions, sustaining weaving communities and symbolising artistic continuity and cultural richness.

The leaders who attended the G7 Summit alongside Prime Minister Modi included European Council President Antonio Costa, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, US President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Kenyan President William Ruto, and South Korean President Lee Jae-Myung.

After concluding his engagements, Prime Minister Modi stated in a post on X that he had a productive round of meetings and interactions in Evian. He emphasised India’s perspectives on governance and policy-making, while underlining the importance of working closely with the Global South to promote global prosperity.

During the summit, Prime Minister Modi also participated in a session on artificial intelligence. He stressed India’s commitment to ethical and human-centric AI development, advocating an inclusive approach to ensure that the benefits of emerging technologies reach developing countries.

His interventions highlighted India’s role in shaping global discourse on technology, governance, and sustainable development.

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French President Macron Surprises Modi With Hindi Farewell At G7 Summit

French President Emmanuel Macron surprised many by departing from standard diplomatic protocol and addressing Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Hindi during a farewell message at the conclusion of Modi’s visit to France.

The gesture was captured in a special video message, where Macron began with the words, “Priya mitra Narendra, mujhe bahut khushi hai, daure ke liye swagat karte, France Bharat ki dosti amar rahe.”

He then smiled and added, “I hope it was correct,” acknowledging his attempt at Hindi. The lines translated to, “Dear friend Narendra, I am very happy, welcome for the visit, may the friendship between France and India remain eternal.”

After this linguistic surprise, Macron seamlessly switched back to English, thanking Modi for his visit and describing it as “very fruitful.” He expressed hope of meeting him again in February, underscoring the personal warmth and camaraderie between the two leaders.

He continued his message with, “Priye mitr Narendra Modi. Thank you for your visit. Thank you for our friendship. It was a very fruitful visit. France loves you. We are looking forward to seeing you again soon, in February. Jai Hind.”

This unusual and high-profile diplomatic interaction took place on the sidelines of the G7 Summit, where Prime Minister Modi had participated in discussions over two days and held bilateral meetings with several world leaders, including US President Donald Trump. The summit provided a platform for India to engage with major powers on pressing global issues, while also strengthening bilateral ties with France.

The foundation for this robust engagement was laid on 14 June, when Modi and Macron held bilateral talks at Villa Kerylos in Nice. This was their first meeting since India and France elevated their relationship to the level of a ‘Special Global Strategic Partnership’ earlier in the year.

The talks covered a wide spectrum of cooperation, with both leaders expressing satisfaction at the growth of defence collaboration across all domains. They agreed to intensify efforts in co-design, co-development, and co-production of defence platforms and advanced technologies, signalling a deepening of strategic trust.

Beyond defence, the leaders looked towards futuristic milestones in space cooperation. They discussed expanding collaboration in human spaceflight and space situational awareness, while also exploring ways to enhance private-sector participation in space ventures. This reflected the shared ambition of both nations to push boundaries in advanced science and technology.

Earlier in the day, Modi and Macron also infused an economic and innovation-driven dimension into their strategic agenda by interacting with start-ups at VivaTech 2026.

The event showcased cutting-edge innovations across sectors, highlighting the importance of new-age technology in shaping the future of India-France cooperation. Their engagement with entrepreneurs underscored a commitment to harnessing innovation for mutual benefit.

Macron’s farewell message, blending Hindi and English, symbolised not only the personal rapport between the two leaders but also the cultural and linguistic bridges being built between India and France.

It was a gesture that resonated deeply with the Indian audience and reinforced the narrative of a partnership that is both strategic and people-centric.

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US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer To Visit India As Interim Trade Talks Near Finalisation

India and the United States reviewed the progress of negotiations towards the interim bilateral trade agreement during the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France.

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will visit India next week to advance discussions.

The leaders expressed satisfaction with the significant progress achieved so far and directed officials to work towards a balanced, mutually beneficial, and commercially meaningful agreement at the earliest opportunity. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that Greer’s visit is directly linked to this effort.

President Trump emphasised that the two sides were very close to finalising the trade deal. He highlighted the productive conversations with Prime Minister Modi and noted that multiple initiatives were underway between the United States and India. He also praised Modi’s role in encouraging investment in the United States, acknowledging India’s financial commitments in American projects.

Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal explained that Greer would arrive in India on the evening of 22 June and hold discussions with the Minister for Commerce and Industry on 23–24 June.

These talks are expected to focus on finalising the framework of the interim agreement and advancing negotiations on the broader Bilateral Trade Agreement.

Greer’s visit comes at a time when India continues to engage with Washington on proposed tariff measures under Section 301 proceedings. The discussions are expected to address these concerns while shaping the contours of the bilateral trade framework. Agrawal stressed that the agreement would cover the entire spectrum of trade relations between the two countries and provide clarity on the ongoing investigations.

Beyond trade, Modi and Trump reviewed the progress achieved under the India-U.S. COMPACT initiative, which was launched during their meeting in Washington D.C. in February 2025.

This framework has catalysed cooperation in defence, strategic technologies, energy, and commerce. Both leaders welcomed the developments and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

The statement underscored their determination to advance cooperation across all domains for the mutual benefit of both nations and their peoples. The upcoming visit of Jamieson Greer is therefore seen as a pivotal step in consolidating the trade negotiations and aligning them with the broader strategic partnership.

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British Envoy Lindy Cameron Calls India-UK Trade Pact Historic As Fastest Deal To Be Implemented

British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron has hailed the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement as historic, describing it as the fastest trade deal ever put into force between the two nations.

The agreement, signed less than a year ago at Chequers in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, will come into effect on 15 July 2026. Cameron emphasised that this rapid implementation underscores the importance of the bilateral relationship and provides a significant opportunity for both countries to reap economic benefits at a complicated time globally.

The deal was announced after a breakthrough at the G7 Summit and aims to double bilateral trade to between USD 100 and 120 billion by 2030. Cameron highlighted that several sectors will benefit, including textiles, footwear, cars, and Scotch whisky.

She noted that the UK will grant immediate duty-free access to 99 per cent of Indian exports, which will particularly benefit labour-intensive industries such as textiles, leather, marine products, and pharmaceuticals. On the Indian side, import tariffs on British Scotch whisky will be reduced from 150 per cent to 40 per cent, a major concession that is expected to boost UK exports.

The High Commissioner acknowledged that steel remains a sensitive issue for both countries. She confirmed that discussions had taken place to address India’s concerns regarding the UK’s steel safeguard measures.

Government sources later clarified that around 85 per cent of India’s steel exports would remain outside the scope of these measures, with concessions negotiated on 188 tariff lines. This ensures that the majority of India’s steel trade with the UK will not be adversely affected.

Indian government sources described the pact as the most aspirational agreement so far, opening up a market worth over USD 500 billion for Indian businesses. They stressed that customs notifications and related processes are being prepared to ensure exporters can avail concessions from day one, with consignments expected to benefit from reduced tariffs starting 15 July itself.

The agreement is expected to provide Indian exporters with an additional tariff advantage of 7 to 10 per cent, bringing India on par with other countries that already enjoy zero-duty access to the UK market. Sources added that over 99 per cent of India’s tariff lines and trade will be reduced to zero duty under the pact.

India currently enjoys a trade surplus with the UK in both merchandise and services. In 2024, India’s services exports to the UK stood at USD 21.6 billion, compared with UK services exports to India valued at USD 13.7 billion.

In 2025, India’s merchandise exports to the UK were USD 13.7 billion, while imports from Britain amounted to USD 9.47 billion. The agreement is expected to further strengthen this surplus, while also expanding opportunities for British exporters in India.

The growing economic engagement between the two countries is evident, with more than 900 Indian companies currently operational in the UK. The CETA is expected to deepen this partnership further, creating new avenues for investment, innovation, and collaboration across diverse sectors. Both governments have described the deal as a landmark achievement that will transform bilateral trade and economic relations.

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PM Modi Strengthens India–France Ties, Meets Alstom CEO In Paris

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Alstom Chief Executive Officer Martin Sion in Paris, marking a significant step in driving economic momentum during the final phase of his visit to France.

The meeting underscored India’s interest in strengthening cooperation with French industry leaders, particularly in the fields of transport and infrastructure, where Alstom has a strong presence.

The Prime Minister arrived in Paris directly from his engagements at the G7 Summit in Evian. Upon landing, he was greeted with immense enthusiasm by members of the Indian diaspora, who expressed their pride in his leadership and the growing India–France partnership.

Modi, in turn, conveyed gratitude for the warm welcome, noting that the community’s efforts have played a vital role in bringing the two nations closer together.

On social media, he remarked that the India–France partnership is crucial not only for bilateral progress but also for the advancement of the planet. His words reflected the broader vision of the relationship, which has increasingly focused on sustainable development, clean energy, and technological innovation.

During his stay in Paris, Modi’s itinerary includes delivering a keynote address at the VivaTech Summit, Europe’s largest technology and start-up convention. His participation highlights India’s growing role in global technology ecosystems and its ambition to showcase indigenous innovation on international platforms.

In addition to high-level technology deliberations, Modi will also engage with non-resident Indians at a dedicated community reception. Such interactions have become a hallmark of his foreign visits, reinforcing the bond between India and its diaspora while encouraging their participation in India’s growth story.

This Paris leg follows Modi’s high-profile participation at the G7 Summit in Evian, where he held discussions with world leaders on pressing global issues. These included governance models, artificial intelligence frameworks, and strategic alliances with developing economies. Modi described the summit as highly fruitful, emphasising that he had the opportunity to present India’s unique strategies in administration and policy development.

He also championed stronger ties with emerging countries, stressing the importance of collaboration with the Global South for global prosperity. On social media, he reflected on these engagements, noting that India’s perspectives on governance and policy-making were well received.

At the summit’s dedicated AI panel, Modi outlined India’s approach to building technological frameworks centred on human welfare and ethical principles. He urged global leaders to adopt inclusive models so that advancements in new-age technology could empower the Global South rather than deepen divides.

Furthermore, he addressed the Outreach Session on “Reviving a Balanced, Shared and Sustainable Economic Growth for All.” In his speech, he presented India’s governance blueprint of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas.” He explained how India’s economic transformation is rooted in democratic principles, large-scale participation, and total social inclusion.

The Paris engagements, combined with his G7 interventions, illustrate Modi’s dual focus on advancing India’s global standing in both economic and technological spheres. His meeting with Alstom’s CEO signals a push to deepen industrial cooperation, while his VivaTech address will reinforce India’s role as a rising hub of innovation.

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Union Home Minister Amit Shah And US Envoy Sergio Gor Strengthen Security Cooperation Amid Global Challenges

Union Home Minister Amit Shah met the United States Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, in New Delhi today for a high-level dialogue on the trajectory of the India–US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

The meeting was aimed at fortifying the bilateral security architecture and addressing common threats in an evolving global landscape.

The discussions underscored the shared commitment of both nations to tackle transnational challenges. According to the Home Minister’s office, the dialogue focused on enhancing intelligence sharing and operational cooperation to combat terrorism, which remains a shared priority for both New Delhi and Washington.

The talks also explored the development of a more robust framework to disrupt illicit drug trafficking networks that threaten regional stability and public safety.

Reflecting on the importance of the meeting, Amit Shah emphasised the role of the current administration’s vision in fostering deeper ties. In a post on X, he stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is firmly committed to advancing the India–US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and ensuring that the people of both nations benefit from the bilateral relationship. He highlighted counter-terrorism and counter-narcotics as key areas of cooperation.

Ambassador Gor echoed these sentiments in his own post on X, noting that the discussions revolved around protecting people from narcotics and illicit drugs, securing borders, and jointly bringing criminals to justice in both nations. He described the meeting with Amit Shah as excellent and fruitful, stressing the importance of collaboration in combating terrorism and shielding populations from transnational threats.

The timing of Gor’s meeting with Amit Shah was significant, as it came shortly after his arrival in India from the G7 Summit in Evian, France. During the summit, Gor shared a photograph with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, describing the meeting as fruitful and noting “lots of positive outcomes between the United States and India.”

India and the United States held wide-ranging discussions during the bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump on the sidelines of the G7 Summit.

Gor highlighted that the two leaders engaged in substantive talks on trade, regional security, and deepening economic partnership. 

The Ministry of External Affairs later announced that US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer would visit India as part of the ongoing negotiations towards an interim bilateral trade agreement.

The meeting between Amit Shah and Sergio Gor thus reinforced the momentum generated at the G7 Summit, linking security cooperation with broader strategic and economic engagement.

It reflected the determination of both nations to strengthen their partnership across multiple domains, ensuring that bilateral ties continue to evolve in response to global challenges.

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Driving Economic Growth, PM Modi Holds Strategic Talks With Saint-Gobain CEO In Paris

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Benoit Bazin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Saint-Gobain, in Paris. The high-level meeting was held during the Prime Minister’s visit to the French capital, marking another important engagement in his three-nation tour.

PM Modi arrived in Paris after concluding his participation at the G7 Summit. His schedule in the city includes several bilateral meetings and his presence at the VivaTech Summit 2026.

This summit is recognised as Europe’s largest technology and start-up convention, bringing together global leaders, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists and innovators. India is participating as the “AI partner country” in this year’s edition, underscoring its growing role in the global technology ecosystem.

At VivaTech, the Prime Minister is expected to highlight India’s rapidly expanding innovation landscape. He will focus on the country’s advancements in digital public infrastructure and progress in emerging technologies. India will also establish the largest national pavilion at the exhibition, reflecting the scale of opportunities for collaboration between Indian and European technology pioneers.

Later in the day, Prime Minister Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron are scheduled to take part in a series of high-level sessions at VivaTech.

Their joint participation will culminate in a keynote address, which is expected to emphasise India’s expanding footprint as an international hub for digital transformation and innovation.

Beyond the technology summit, the Prime Minister’s program in Paris places strong emphasis on community engagement. He is scheduled to interact with the Indian diaspora at a dedicated event. The Paris leg of his visit will conclude with a large diaspora reception, featuring cultural showcases that celebrate India’s diverse and vibrant heritage.

This packed schedule follows his arrival from the G7 Summit, where he outlined India’s vision on sustainable development, global governance and international trade. In a post on X, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of deepened cooperation with nations of the Global South to foster inclusive growth and shared prosperity.

During the G7 outreach deliberations, he advocated for enhanced cooperation among the G7 bloc, India and developing nations to strengthen trade and connectivity networks. He also drew attention to the negative economic repercussions of the conflict in West Asia on developing economies.

The meeting with Saint-Gobain’s CEO reflects India’s interest in expanding industrial and technological partnerships with leading European companies.

Saint-Gobain, a global leader in sustainable construction and advanced materials, has a significant presence in India, with investments in glass manufacturing, building solutions and green technologies.

The discussion is likely to have touched upon opportunities for collaboration in sustainable infrastructure, energy efficiency and innovation-driven growth, aligning with India’s broader agenda of clean development and industrial modernisation.

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Trump Vows US Support For India’s Defence, Says ‘If They’re Attacked, We’ll Help Them’

US President Donald Trump reaffirmed America’s readiness to support India militarily if attacked, during his bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G7 Summit in Évian, France. 

The talks also covered trade negotiations, maritime security, and the safety of Indian seafarers, underscoring the breadth of the India–US strategic partnership.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit 2026 in Évian-les-Bains, marking their first face-to-face interaction in sixteen months. The meeting came at a critical juncture for India–US relations, with both leaders emphasising defence cooperation, trade, and regional stability.

President Trump described the India–US defence relationship as “a great relationship” and stressed that formal treaty obligations were not necessary to demonstrate Washington’s commitment.

He declared that if India were attacked, the United States would stand by New Delhi, adding, “If they’re attacked and he’s the leader, we’re going to be there to help.” This statement was a clear public endorsement of the strategic partnership, even in the absence of a formal mutual defence pact.

Prime Minister Modi raised the issue of Indian seafarers’ safety in the Strait of Hormuz, noting that lakhs of Indian sailors operate across global maritime trade routes and their security was of utmost importance.

This followed recent attacks on vessels with Indian crew, including fatalities. Modi urged that any future understanding with Iran must include measures to safeguard Indian seafarers. President Trump acknowledged the dangers faced by sailors, remarking, “It is a rough profession. We are working at it,” and assured that steps were being taken to address the matter.

The leaders also reviewed progress under the India–US COMPACT framework, which has advanced cooperation in defence, strategic technologies, energy, and trade. They expressed satisfaction with negotiations towards an interim bilateral trade agreement, instructing officials to expedite work on a balanced and commercially meaningful deal. The US Trade Representative is scheduled to visit India next week to continue discussions.

Trade negotiations were a focal point of Trump’s remarks. He praised Modi as “one of the toughest negotiators” he had encountered, contrasting perceptions of Modi’s geniality with his toughness in trade talks.

Trump added that Modi “loves the Indian people,” highlighting his admiration for the prime minister’s leadership. Recalling their rapport from earlier events such as “Howdy Modi” in Houston, Trump emphasised that while trade discussions remained challenging, the personal relationship between the two leaders was strong.

Modi commended Trump’s efforts in facilitating an understanding to end the ongoing conflict in West Asia, noting its importance for regional peace and stability. He also underlined the need to maintain freedom of navigation and unimpeded commerce in the Strait of Hormuz, linking it directly to the safety of Indian seafarers.

The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening the India–US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

They agreed to advance cooperation across defence, trade, energy, and technology, ensuring mutual benefit for both nations and their peoples. Modi described the relationship as having gained “new speed and new energy,” while Trump reiterated his readiness to stand by India in times of crisis.

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Trump Calls Modi A Total Killer, A Tough Trader And Loyal Friend At G7 Bilateral

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday lavished praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their bilateral meeting in Evian, France, on the sidelines of the G7 Summit 2026.

He described Modi as “a killer and a tough trader,” while emphasising his immense respect for the Indian leader.

Trump remarked that Modi was “the most beautiful-looking man” but “as tough as a killer.” He elaborated that Modi’s appearance could be deceiving, noting that while he looked angelic, he was in fact a formidable negotiator. Trump added that Modi’s charm often caught people by surprise, making him one of the few leaders with such a combination of qualities.

The US President stressed that India had a great friend in the White House as long as he remained in office. He underlined that everyone at the summit respected Modi and admired India. Trump reiterated that Modi was “nice but tough,” pointing out that while many saw him as a gentle figure, he was in reality a hard negotiator who cared deeply for both India and the United States.

Recalling the ‘Howdy Modi’ event in Houston, Trump highlighted the strong bond between the two nations and promised to visit India in the future. He also assured that if India were attacked, the United States would stand by it, provided Modi remained the leader. He declared that if anyone attacked Modi, America would be there to help, reinforcing the strength of their relationship.

Trump further stated that India had a significant role to play in global affairs, including West Asia, as long as Modi was at the helm. He emphasised that India’s influence extended across multiple spheres and would continue to grow under Modi’s leadership.

The US President also referred to ongoing trade negotiations, noting that both countries were working on deals and that India was investing heavily in the United States.

He praised Modi for building projects in America and expressed appreciation for the economic contributions. Trump concluded by calling Modi his long-time friend, affirming that their relationship had always been strong.

Prime Minister Modi, in turn, commended Trump’s efforts to restore peace in West Asia. He spoke of a “new momentum” in India-US relations and expressed optimism that this would lead to lasting peace in the region. Modi stressed the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for the global economy, reiterating India’s consistent emphasis on freedom of navigation. He urged joint cooperation on this issue, highlighting its significance for international stability.

The bilateral meeting between the two leaders underscored the deepening strategic partnership between India and the United States, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to trade, security, and global peace. Modi’s remarks aligned with Trump’s vision of strengthening ties, while Trump’s effusive praise reflected the personal rapport between the two leaders.

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Trump Calls Modi A Good-Looking Guy And Tough Negotiator At G7

US President Donald Trump lavished praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their interaction on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Évian-les-Bains, France.

He described the Indian leader as a "good-looking guy" and a "tough negotiator", remarks that were both light-hearted and politically significant.

The exchange took place as the two leaders convened for crucial talks at the summit, where heads of state are grappling with pressing global economic challenges, security concerns, and evolving geopolitical developments. Trump’s comments drew immediate attention from the assembled press corps, adding a personal dimension to the high-level diplomatic proceedings.

Trump elaborated on Modi’s distinct style of diplomacy, noting the contrast between his calm public demeanour and his formidable grit behind closed doors. He emphasised that Modi’s negotiating abilities and political acumen make him far tougher at the bargaining table than his outward image might suggest. Reinforcing this assessment, Trump directly stated, "He's a tough negotiator," while also complimenting Modi’s appearance and personality.

This endorsement aligns with Trump’s established narrative of respect for Modi, whom he has frequently described as a strong and effective leader. The remarks fit seamlessly into the broader context of India-US relations, which have been shaped by a history of warm personal rapport between the two leaders.

The trust underpinning the bilateral dynamic is anchored in landmark joint public appearances. Events such as the "Howdy Modi" rally in Houston in 2019 and the "Namaste Trump" gathering in Ahmedabad in 2020 remain defining milestones. These occasions showcased the depth of the partnership and the personal chemistry between the leaders, serving as enduring symbols of modern India-US cooperation.

Trump has often cited these events as examples of the close ties between Washington and New Delhi, as well as his personal friendship with Modi. His latest remarks at the G7 Summit added another chapter to this narrative, reinforcing the perception of a strong bond between the two leaders.

The candid comments quickly became a focal point of interest among global media covering the summit. They highlighted not only Trump’s admiration for Modi but also the broader significance of India’s role in international diplomacy at a time when global cooperation is under strain.

The interaction underscored the importance of personal rapport in shaping strategic partnerships. It also reaffirmed the trajectory of India-US relations, which continue to be defined by mutual respect, shared democratic values, and converging interests in global stability and economic growth.

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