WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — President Donald Trump holds a “very positive and strong” view of the India–U.S. relationship, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Tuesday, highlighting continued trade talks and active communication between the two leaders. Speaking during a press briefing, Leavitt said Trump “recently, a few weeks back, spoke to Prime Minister [Narendra] Modi directly when he celebrated in the Oval Office Diwali with many high-ranking Indian American officials here at the White House.”
She added that the president has “great respect for Prime Minister Modi” and that the two leaders “communicate quite frequently.” According to Leavitt, Trump remains personally engaged in strengthening ties between Washington and New Delhi, underscoring the administration’s commitment to deepen economic and diplomatic cooperation with India. Last month, Trump hosted a Diwali celebration in the Oval Office. The event brought together Indian Ambassador Vinay Kwatra and several prominent Indian American community leaders. During the celebration, Trump spoke by phone with Modi and extended his Diwali greetings.
Modi, in turn, expressed appreciation and reaffirmed the shared values that connect India and the United States. The Indian prime minister said both nations would “continue to illuminate the world with hope” and remain united in fighting terrorism. The Diwali event marked another moment of goodwill between the two countries, reflecting the strong cultural and strategic ties that have grown over the years. Trump’s remarks during the celebration underscored his administration’s recognition of the Indian American community’s contributions and the importance of U.S.–India relations in global affairs.
Leavitt emphasized that the U.S. and India are engaged in “serious discussions” on trade-related issues. “The President and his trade team continue to be in earnest discussions with India with respect to that topic,” she said. Trade has long been a cornerstone of the India–U.S. partnership. Both nations have worked to expand market access, promote investment, and collaborate on technology and innovation. With growing economic interdependence, Washington and New Delhi are seeking to resolve trade barriers and open new areas of cooperation in defense, energy, and digital infrastructure.
The White House press secretary also praised U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, describing him as a capable diplomat who “will represent our country very well.” Gor, who recently assumed his post in New Delhi, is expected to play a key role in advancing U.S. economic and strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region. Leavitt said ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two countries reflects the administration’s “strong commitment to partnership with India.” She added that Trump views India as a critical ally in promoting peace and stability in Asia and beyond.
The United States and India have strengthened cooperation across several sectors, including defense, cybersecurity, clean energy, and health. Regular high-level dialogues, joint military exercises, and technology collaborations have reinforced the strategic dimension of the partnership.
Officials in both capitals have also worked to coordinate responses to global challenges, from supply chain resilience to climate action. The White House has frequently highlighted India’s growing role as a major global power and an essential partner in ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. Observers see the Trump administration’s renewed focus on India as part of a broader strategy to strengthen ties with democratic allies in Asia.
