Trump Calls Modi "Fantastic" But Criticises India's Trade Practices

Former US President Donald Trump revealed on Tuesday that he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week during Modi's visit to the United States. Speaking at a campaign event in Michigan, the Republican presidential candidate praised the Indian leader, calling him "fantastic" but also criticised India as a "very big abuser" of trade relations due to its high import tariffs.

"So when India, which is a very big abuser… He (Modi) happens to be coming to meet me next week, and Modi, he's fantastic. I mean, fantastic man. A lot of these leaders are fantastic," Trump said while addressing the crowd.

Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to visit the US from 21 to 23 September, where he will participate in the Quad Leaders' Summit and address the 'Summit of the Future' at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The fourth Quad Summit will be hosted by President Joe Biden in Wilmington, Delaware. Following this, PM Modi will travel to New York to engage with the Indian community on Long Island and deliver a speech at the UN General Assembly. The theme of the summit is 'Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow'.

During his visit, PM Modi will also meet with CEOs from leading US companies to foster collaborations in key sectors like AI, quantum computing, semiconductors, and biotechnology. In addition, he is expected to engage with thought leaders and stakeholders involved in the India-US bilateral relationship.

The last meeting between PM Modi and Donald Trump took place in February 2020, during Trump's visit to India, which was hailed as a "path-breaking" moment in the strengthening of Indo-US ties.