Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held a telephone conversation on Wednesday, reviewing bilateral cooperation across trade, defence, energy and critical technologies while reaffirming their commitment to strengthening the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Modi described the conversation as productive and said both leaders had agreed to maintain close engagement to advance cooperation between the two countries.
The leaders also exchanged views on regional and international developments, including ongoing efforts to promote global peace and security. According to the Prime Minister's Office, both sides reiterated their commitment to advancing the strategic partnership and maintaining regular communication on matters of mutual interest.
Trade negotiations remain in focus
The conversation came as Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal continued his visit to the United States from September 29 to October 5 to advance negotiations on a proposed bilateral trade agreement. India and the US have been discussing an interim trade arrangement alongside a broader agreement aimed at expanding economic cooperation between the two countries.
Goyal arrived in Milwaukee on Tuesday to participate in engagements linked to the G20 trade ministers' meeting. During his visit, he also met senior executives from American manufacturing and technology companies at a roundtable organised by the National Association of Manufacturers.
Energy and strategic cooperation
The discussions between Modi and Trump took place against the backdrop of continuing differences over trade and energy policy, particularly recent American tariff measures linked to India's purchases of Russian oil. Earlier this month, India had cautioned Washington that such measures could affect bilateral relations.
Despite these differences, both governments have continued diplomatic engagement across defence, energy and emerging technologies. Wednesday's conversation reaffirmed their intention to maintain dialogue and strengthen cooperation on shared strategic interests.
Leaders discuss global security
Apart from bilateral relations, Modi and Trump discussed regional and international developments and ongoing efforts to advance global peace and security. Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact as their governments continued engagement on economic and strategic matters.
The telephone conversation coincided with India's efforts to secure a mutually beneficial trade agreement with Washington. However, no breakthrough in the ongoing trade negotiations or specific new bilateral agreement was announced following the call.