India's PM and Trump Hold High-Level Trade Talks to Strengthen Economic Ties

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held their first phone call since Trump's return to office, with both leaders confirming they discussed trade relations during the conversation that coincided with the Hindu festival of Diwali.

Trump revealed details of the call while lighting candles at a White House Diwali celebration on Wednesday. "We discussed trade and we talked about a lot of things, especially in the world of trade," Trump told reporters. "He's very much interested in that."

Modi thanked Trump for the call on X (formerly Twitter), expressing hope that "our great democracies will continue to illuminate the world with hope." The timing wasn't coincidental - Diwali, known as the festival of lights, is one of India's most important celebrations.

The call signals early diplomatic engagement between the world's largest democracies as Trump begins his second term. Trade has been a central issue in US-India relations, with both countries looking to expand their economic partnership. India represents a massive market for American companies, while the US remains one of India's largest trading partners.

For investors and businesses, this early outreach suggests both leaders want to maintain momentum in bilateral trade talks. The US-India trade relationship has grown significantly in recent years, reaching over $190 billion in 2023. Key sectors include technology, pharmaceuticals, and defense equipment.

Trump's emphasis on trade during the call fits his broader economic agenda, while Modi continues pushing India's position as a global manufacturing hub. Both countries have been working to reduce trade barriers and increase investment flows between their economies.