Trump hails India's rise, calls PM Modi a leader he admires

Story by  Vidushi Gaur | Posted by  Vidushi Gaur | Date 20-06-2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Donald Trump
Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Donald Trump

 

Vidushi Gaur/ New Delhi

US President Donald Trump has once again showered praise on India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing the Indian leader as one of the global figures he admires and crediting him for India's growing influence on the world stage.

In a recent interaction that has drawn attention across diplomatic and political circles, Trump reflected on India's remarkable transformation over the years, saying he had watched the country evolve continuously and emerge as a major global power. According to a video shared on social media, Trump noted that India had kept "changing, changing, changing," highlighting the country's rapid economic and strategic progress.

The latest remarks add to a series of public endorsements Trump has made about Modi in recent weeks. During an interview with Axios, the US President described the Indian Prime Minister as "a very tough cookie" and listed him among the world leaders he admires the most. Trump's comments came shortly after the two leaders met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France.

Trump has repeatedly underlined the importance of India in global affairs. Speaking after his meeting with Modi at the G7 Summit, he asserted that India would continue to play a major international role under Modi's leadership. "As long as he's the leader, India is going to play a big role," Trump said, underscoring his confidence in the Prime Minister's leadership and India's growing geopolitical relevance.

The personal rapport between the two leaders has remained a defining feature of India-US relations. Trump has often referred to Modi as a friend and praised his negotiating skills. During their recent discussions, the two leaders reviewed progress in bilateral ties, discussed trade issues, and exchanged views on regional security challenges. Trump also expressed optimism about an upcoming India-US trade agreement, saying the two countries were "very close" to finalizing a deal.

Despite occasional disagreements over tariffs and trade policies, Trump's latest statements suggest that Washington continues to view New Delhi as a key strategic partner. The US President's repeated praise for Modi reflects not only a strong personal relationship but also the increasing importance of India in American foreign policy calculations.

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For India, Trump's comments serve as another indication of the country's rising global stature. As New Delhi expands its diplomatic footprint and economic influence, recognition from world leaders such as Trump reinforces the perception of India as an indispensable player in shaping the future international order.