PM Modi-Trump meeting spurs optimism in business, community leaders on India-US ties

Washington (IANS): The high-level meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France has re-energized optimism surrounding India-US ties, with business and community leaders pointing to substantial progress across trade, defence, and regional security.

Mukesh Aghi, president of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), observed that the interaction “signalled a pathway to progress.” He noted that both Washington and New Delhi are actively finalizing the details of a major trade deal that has undergone extensive ministerial and bureaucratic negotiations for over a year. Aghi added that President Trump’s agreement to visit India soon serves as a highly positive signal for bilateral diplomacy.

During his joint appearance with PM Modi, Trump heavily emphasized their close personal friendship and expanding economic ties. “He’s spending a lot of money in the United States, so we appreciate that—jobs,” Trump remarked. “He’s been my friend for a long time now, and we’ve always had a great relationship.”

The leaders also prioritized defence cooperation, particularly focusing on maritime security and freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific—a focus sharpened by a recent attack on Indian sailors in the Gulf of Oman. Underlining America’s strategic commitment to India under Modi’s leadership, Trump stated, “If anybody attacks that man, we’re going to be there… If they’re attacked and he’s the leader, we’re going to be there to help.”

Prominent community leader Jasdip Singh Jassee of Sikhs of America welcomed the upbeat tone of the summit. He emphasized that Trump’s explicit assurances of solidarity would resonate deeply with Indian Americans and the Sikh community, both of whom strongly advocate for a robust, stable alliance. Jassee added that the positive momentum toward an imminent trade pact and deeper Indo-Pacific engagement will pave the way for mutual economic growth and innovation.