Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised U.S. President Donald Trump, saying he is “far more prepared” for his second term and has a clear plan for his goals. Modi shared these thoughts during a podcast interview with American scientist and podcaster Lex Fridman, which was released on Sunday.
India-U.S. Trade and Tariffs
The interview comes just weeks before the U.S. plans to introduce new tariffs on several countries, including India. These tariffs, which will start in April, may affect Indian businesses in industries like automobiles and agriculture.
After meeting Trump last month, Modi and the U.S. president agreed to resolve their trade disputes and aim for a step-by-step trade deal by late 2025. Their goal is to increase trade between India and the U.S. to $500 billion by 2030.
“This time, he seems more prepared than before,” Modi said, referring to Trump’s second term, which began in January. “He has a clear plan with well-defined steps to achieve his goals.”
Modi also praised Trump’s leadership, calling him “gracious and humble.” He said they share similar nationalist values, with Trump’s “America First” approach aligning with Modi’s “India First” vision.
India’s Relations with China and Pakistan
Modi also spoke about India’s relationships with its neighbors, China and Pakistan.
He said that India’s ties with China improved last year after both countries agreed to reduce military tensions along their border. This agreement followed talks between Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Russia.
“Trust and cooperation will grow over time,” Modi said, though he acknowledged that normal relations would take time after the 2020 border clashes.
Regarding Pakistan, Modi said India always wants peace but has faced challenges.
“Every time we try to make peace, we face hostility and betrayal,” he said. “We hope they choose the path of peace in the future.”
A Wide-Ranging Discussion
The three-hour conversation covered many topics, including diplomacy, artificial intelligence, and Modi’s early life. Fridman called it one of the most “powerful” discussions he had ever recorded.
Modi’s remarks give insight into India’s approach to global trade, diplomacy, and its relationships with neighboring countries.
