The White House on Tuesday reaffirmed President Donald Trump’s commitment to strengthening the India-US relationship, describing the partnership as one that the President feels “very strongly” about. The remarks come amid ongoing discussions between the two nations on trade, energy, and strategic cooperation.
Addressing a press briefing on Tuesday (local time), White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said, “The President is positive and feels very strongly about the India-US relationship. A few weeks ago, he spoke to Prime Minister Modi directly when he celebrated Diwali in the Oval Office with many high-ranking Indian-American officials here at the White House.”
“I know the President has great respect for Prime Minister Modi and they speak pretty frequently,” she added.
She also highlighted the recent appointment of Sergio Gor as the new US Ambassador to India, calling him “a great representative of American interests” and “a testament to the President’s commitment to strengthening ties with India.”
She confirmed that Washington and New Delhi are engaged in “very serious discussions” on trade and economic issues, noting that Trump’s trade team is working closely with their Indian counterparts. “The President and his trade team continue to be in very serious discussions with India with respect to that topic,” Leavitt said.
The White House’s comments follow Trump’s Diwali celebrations on October 21 at the Oval Office, where he personally lit a diya, describing it as “a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness.” During the event, Trump referred to PM Modi as “a great person” and said he loves “the people of India.”
The ceremony was attended by Indian Ambassador Vinay Kwatra, newly appointed US Ambassador Sergio Gor, FBI Director Kash Patel, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and several prominent Indian-American business leaders.
(With agency inputs)