Donald Trump and Narendra Modi near trade deal at G7 summit

U.S. President Donald Trump praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "great leader" and a "tough guy" during a side‑meeting at the G7 summit in France, saying the two leaders are "very close to" finalising a trade agreement. Trump highlighted Modi’s long‑term friendship and noted that India would have a strong ally in the White House.

The discussions covered trade, energy, defence and technology cooperation, and Modi raised the safety of Indian seafarers after three Indian crew members were killed in U.S. strikes in the Gulf of Oman. Both leaders stressed the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and assuring the security of maritime trade routes.