India's Modi Says Ties with US Remain 'Very Positive' After Trump Jab
NEW DELHI (AP) — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought to downplay a recent strain in ties between India and the United States, saying relations remain "very positive" despite a trade spat that has seen Washington impose tariffs of up to 50 percent on Indian imports.
Modi's statement, posted on X on Saturday, came after US President Donald Trump reaffirmed their personal friendship and downplayed earlier remarks about losing India to China. Modi expressed appreciation for Trump's sentiments, saying: "I deeply appreciate and fully reciprocate President Trump's positive assessment of our ties."
The strain in relations between the two longtime allies emerged after the Trump administration imposed tariffs on Indian imports, accusing New Delhi of unfair trade practices. The move has sparked concerns about the impact on bilateral trade and investment.
Modi's statement was seen as an attempt to maintain a positive tone despite the tensions. "India and the US have a very positive and forward-looking comprehensive and global strategic partnership," he said.
The tariffs imposed by Washington are part of a broader trade dispute between the two countries. The Trump administration has accused India of imposing retaliatory tariffs on American goods, including almonds and apples.
The strain in ties has been seen as a setback for US-India relations, which have been strengthening in recent years. The two countries have cooperated closely on issues such as counter-terrorism and defense.
However, some analysts have questioned the impact of the trade spat on bilateral relations. "While the tariffs are a significant issue, it's not necessarily a reflection of the overall state of US-India relations," said C. Raja Mohan, a foreign policy analyst at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.
The current status of the trade dispute remains uncertain. The Indian government has expressed its willingness to engage in talks with Washington to resolve the issue, but no formal negotiations have been announced.
In the meantime, Modi's statement is seen as an attempt to maintain a positive tone and reassure investors about the strength of US-India relations.
*Reporting by Aljazeera.*
