Trump lauds Modi as “great leader” and “tough negotiator” at G7 summit

U.S. President Donald Trump repeatedly praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during and after the G7 summit in Evian‑les‑Bains, France. In an Axios interview and in remarks at the bilateral meeting, Trump named Modi alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping as the two world leaders he admires most, calling Modi “a great leader,” “a very tough cookie,” and “a very tough negotiator.”

Trump highlighted four reasons for his admiration: Modi’s ability to keep India out of wars, the country’s strong economic performance, more than a decade of political stability, and a leadership style that combines calmness with toughness. He noted that Modi has been in power for over 12 years and that “as long as he’s the leader, India is going to play a big role.” Trump also said the United States does “fair business” with India and pledged support if India were attacked.

The comments came as the United States and India discuss a pending trade agreement and broader strategic cooperation, underscoring the personal rapport Trump claims to have built with Modi over multiple visits and public events such as the “Howdy Modi” gathering.