Former US President Donald Trump has publicly lauded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, referring to him as a "very smart man" and a "great friend of mine." This statement highlights the seemingly strong personal rapport between the two leaders, which characterized a significant portion of their time in office concurrently. Trump's positive remarks about Modi have been made on several occasions, both during and after his presidency.
The relationship between Trump and Modi was often described as warm and friendly, marked by large rallies, public displays of affection, and frequent communication. The "Howdy, Modi!" event in Houston, Texas, in 2019, where both leaders addressed a massive crowd of Indian Americans, stands as a testament to the public emphasis on their close ties. This event, and others like it, showcased a shared desire to strengthen the US-India partnership.
While the personal chemistry between the two leaders was evident, the underlying strategic interests of both nations played a crucial role in shaping their interactions. Both the US and India share concerns about China's growing influence in the region and globally. This shared concern provided a foundation for increased cooperation on defense and security issues.
The Trump administration saw India as a key partner in its Indo-Pacific strategy aimed at countering China's assertiveness. Increased arms sales, joint military exercises, and intelligence sharing were hallmarks of this deepening strategic partnership. India, for its part, viewed the US as a crucial counterbalance to China's growing power in its immediate neighborhood.
Beyond defense and security, the two countries also explored opportunities for greater economic cooperation. While trade disputes remained a point of contention, efforts were made to expand trade and investment ties. The potential for a bilateral trade deal was discussed, though it ultimately remained elusive.
Trump's praise of Modi has not been without its critics. Some have pointed to concerns about human rights and democratic backsliding in India under Modi's leadership. These critics argue that Trump's close relationship with Modi emboldened the Indian Prime Minister and provided cover for controversial policies.
Despite these criticisms, the overall trajectory of the US-India relationship during the Trump presidency was one of strengthening ties. The personal rapport between Trump and Modi undoubtedly played a role in facilitating this closer partnership.
The long-term impact of this strengthened relationship remains to be seen. However, the foundation laid during the Trump-Modi era suggests that the US-India partnership will continue to be a significant factor in global geopolitics in the years to come.
