How Modi-Trump Vibe with each other? A timeline of various statements and interactions.

In the 2024 United States Presidential elections, the citizens of the United States elected Donald Trump from the Republican Party as the 47th President. This election cycle was characterized by significant polarization, with the 46th President-elect, Joe Biden, referring to Trump's supporters as 'Garbage', while Kamala Harris criticized the policies implemented during Trump's previous administration. This outcome raises questions about its implications for India. To understand this better, it is essential to examine the interactions between leaders Trump and Modi during their past collaborations.

After the victory Trump called Canadian Ex PM as governor, asking Canada to become 51st state of USA. While as usual the Canadian counterpart was silly, and threatened to stop export of Steel and other minerals to US. But one this is clear that Trump has come up like a boxing ring fighter, who even had started punching many before entering the ring.

Trump also changed the name of Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America, and hinted to capture Greenland and Panama Canal. Lets know of how PM Modi and President Trump has gone along in the past?

Following Trump's triumph in the 2016 elections, PM Modi was the first leader to offer his congratulations. The relationship between the two leaders was primarily transactional, characterized by occasional phone calls when it was necessary to address issues, including strategies for responding to Covid-19.

June 2017 (they met in Washington D.C.): This meeting marked Modi's inaugural encounter with Trump, during which both leaders expressed a strong interest in strengthening defense ties, combating terrorism, and boosting trade relations.

February 2018: President Trump and Prime Minister Modi expressed their concerns about the political climate in the Maldives, as well as security issues in Afghanistan and the Indo-Pacific region. This conversation highlighted the apprehensions surrounding terrorism and the pursuit of peace in the area.

In August 2019, during the G7 summit held in Seoul and Biarritz, France, the discussions encompassed several critical topics, including trade tensions, the Kashmir situation, and regional security concerns.

President Trump, during a conversation with Modi amid the tensions in Kashmir, emphasized the necessity for moderation and highlighted the importance of alleviating tensions between India and Pakistan. Modi responded by stating that addressing issues related to terrorism and counter-terrorism in the region is of paramount importance.

September 2019: Howdy Modi Event, Houston, Texas: U.S.-India relations; the role of the Indian diaspora; defense collaboration. President Trump participated in Modi's rally, highlighting the significance of the relationship between the United States and India, as well as their shared strategic interests.

Further, in September 2019 (United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), New York), they discussed Security, trade, and regional partnerships. This meeting primarily focused on enhancing cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, fortifying trade connections, and addressing regional security issues, particularly concerning South Asia.

In February 2020, during the Namaste Trump event held in Ahmedabad, India, several challenges were identified concerning the bilateral relationship, particularly in the areas of security and energy cooperation. Prime Minister Modi extended a cordial welcome to President Trump, which was subsequently accompanied by defense agreements. These agreements encompassed arms sales between the two nations, in addition to collaborative energy initiatives.

April 2020: Hydroxychloroquine was requested for export from India by the United States. In a conversation between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump, they discussed potential avenues for cooperation in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This conversation was significant as it highlighted the importance of collaboration in health and crisis management.

June 2020 (Virtual): Negotiations were conducted between the two leaders, during which they discussed the Chinese activities near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh, amidst the ongoing border conflict with India. Trump proposed inviting India to an expanded G7 summit and emphasized the necessity for reforms in international health institutions, particularly concerning the World Health Organization (WHO).

They ensured that significant developments were communicated through their ongoing phone discussions, which encompassed the events related to the Galwan Valley conflict in 2020.

During the 2024 Presidential election campaign, he expressed several views regarding Prime Minister Modi in various interviews, stating:

"We share a very strong relationship. He is an exceptionally kind individual, but there have been instances where threats were posed to India. I offered my assistance. (Trump mimicking PM Modi) 'I will take care of it, I will do whatever is necessary. We have triumphed over them for centuries'... You can likely deduce which country I am referring to. I was taken aback by what transpired there," Trump remarked.

Additionally, he noted: "Prior to his tenure, they were changing Prime Ministers annually, leading to significant instability. Then he emerged; he is remarkable and a personal friend. Externally, he may appear as a paternal figure, as he is truly the kindest..."

While after the Trump's 2024 win, in a post on X, Modi said, “Had a great conversation with my friend, President Donald Trump, congratulating him on his spectacular victory. Looking forward to working closely together once again to further strengthen India-US relations across technology, defence, energy, space and several other sectors.”

Sources indicated that, Trump told PM Modi during their phone call that “he considers him and India a true friend”.

In January 2025, PM Modi congratulated Trump on his official swearing, by writing on X, “Congratulations my dear friend President @realDonaldTrump on your historic inauguration as the 47th President of the United States! I look forward to working closely together once again, to benefit both our countries, and to shape a better future for the world. Best wishes for a successful term ahead!”.

While External Affairs Minister of India Dr. S Jaishankar attended the ceremony in Washington DC and wrote on X, "Privileged to represent India as External Affairs Minister and Special Envoy of PM at the Swearing-In Ceremony of the 47th President of the United States of America today in Washington DC,".

Nervertheless, India's Minister of External Affairs, S. Jaishankar, has expressed that the outcome of the election is inconsequential, as India's relationship with the United States is poised for growth. With Donald Trump set to assume the presidency shortly, Indian diplomatic circles appear to be optimistic and anticipate numerous significant discussions ahead.

stay tune for more.

Get membership to feature your article. Check here.