At G7, Modi, Trump discuss security, trade, West Asia

US President Trump calls PM Modi one of the toughest negotiators he has encountered, while describing India as a trusted partner

After more than a year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Evian, France, on Wednesday and held wide-ranging discussions on key regional and bilateral issues, including the evolving situation in West Asia, trade relations, maritime security, safety of seafarers and the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation across global sea lanes.

During the bilateral, President Trump reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to strengthening ties with New Delhi and underscored the importance of the India-US strategic partnership, particularly in the defence sector. Trump also praised PM Modi’s leadership, asserting that India would continue to play a major role in global affairs under his stewardship.

PM Modi raised concerns over the safety and security of Indian seafarers amid growing instability in critical maritime routes following recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Gulf region. The issue holds particular significance as Indian nationals account for nearly 10 per cent of the global seafaring workforce.

The high-profile meeting, the first between the two leaders in nearly 18 months, comes at a crucial juncture when India-US relations are seeking to recover from recent strains triggered by Washington’s tariff measures and President Trump’s remarks on the India-Pakistan military tensions earlier this year.

The two leaders exchanged views on regional security challenges, including developments in West Asia, and discussed the need for maintaining stability, uninterrupted maritime commerce and adherence to international norms governing freedom of navigation.

PM Modi highlighted the contribution of Indian sailors to global maritime trade and underscored the need to ensure their safety in increasingly volatile shipping corridors. The concern gained urgency after three Indian sailors were killed last week following attacks on a merchant vessel off the coast of Oman.

Both leaders also discussed the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, through which a substantial portion of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies transit every day. They emphasised that stability in the Gulf region, protection of commercial shipping routes and unhindered freedom of navigation are critical for global energy security, international trade and the smooth functioning of supply chains. Given India’s significant dependence on energy imports from the Gulf, the security of maritime corridors in and around the Strait of Hormuz remains a key strategic concern for New Delhi.

The two leaders had earlier exchanged greetings and held a brief interaction during the G7 outreach session before sitting down for formal talks.

India is participating in the 52nd G7 Summit as a partner country, with PM Modi engaging world leaders on issues concerning India and the Global South.

In a significant endorsement of India’s growing global stature, President Trump said New Delhi would continue to play a major role in international decision-making under PM Modi’s leadership.

“India always plays a major role in international decision-making and will continue to do so as long as Modi remains the country’s leader,” Trump said during the bilateral meeting.

The US President also described PM Modi as one of the toughest negotiators he has encountered.

“You look at this man. He’s the most beautiful-looking man. He looks so nice. He’s like an angel. But actually, he’s tough,” Trump remarked.

Responding to a question on concerns in India over some recent US policy decisions, Trump sought to reassure Indians, saying New Delhi had a “great friend in the White House”.

“I can tell you everyone here loves India. They have tremendous respect for this man,” Trump said, referring to PM Modi.

The meeting is being viewed as an important step in rebuilding momentum in bilateral ties following last month’s visit by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to India. Both sides have expressed interest in strengthening cooperation across strategic, economic, defence and security domains despite recent disagreements.

India’s participation in the G7 Summit marks its 13th appearance at the grouping and Prime Minister Modi’s seventh consecutive attendance, reflecting New Delhi’s expanding influence in global affairs and its role as a leading voice of the Global South.

India-UK trade deal begins on July 15: PM

Evian-Les-Bains: The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement will enter into force on July 15 and it will significantly boost bilateral trade and investment ties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday.

“A historic milestone for India-UK relations. Delighted to note that the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement will enter into force on 15th July 2026... This agreement will significantly boost our bilateral trade and investment. It will also unlock numerous opportunities for Indian farmers, workers, MSMEs, startups and innovators and contribute meaningfully to the realisation of Viksit Bharat 2047,” PM Modi said on social media.

The PM said the trade pact will bring significant momentum to the economic ties between India and the UK.