Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended heartfelt congratulations to President-elect Donald Trump following his victory in the fiercely contested 2024 US presidential election. The two leaders spoke over the phone, discussing their shared commitment to global peace and the strengthening of bilateral relations between India and the United States.
In his victory speech, Trump reiterated his intention to prioritize world peace, stating that one of his first actions would be to halt ongoing conflicts. He also emphasized his belief in peaceful negotiations, a sentiment that aligns with India’s role as a trusted mediator in global conflicts, such as the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Had a great conversation with my friend, President @realDonaldTrump, congratulating him on his spectacular victory. Looking forward to working closely together once again to further strengthen India-US relations across technology, defence, energy, space and several other sectors.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 6, 2024
During the phone call, Trump praised PM Modi, telling him that “the whole world loves PM Modi” and describing India as a “magnificent country.” Sources indicated that Trump expressed his admiration for Modi, calling him a “magnificent man.” The American leader further conveyed his regard for India and reiterated that he considers both PM Modi and India as true friends. Notably, Modi was among the first world leaders to whom Trump reached out following his election victory.
Prime Minister Modi later shared details of the conversation on social media platform X, where he expressed his enthusiasm for working closely with Trump in the future. “Had a great conversation with my friend, President Donald Trump, congratulating him on his spectacular victory. Looking forward to working closely together once again to further strengthen India-US relations across technology, defence, energy, space, and several other sectors,” Modi wrote.
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India’s experience with Trump’s presidency between 2016 and 2020 had seen both cooperation and friction. While Trump had supported India’s stance on global terrorism, his administration had also imposed tough tariffs on American imports. His return to the presidency may signal new opportunities for India, particularly in areas like trade and defense, though sectors such as pharmaceuticals and information technology could face challenges if Trump pursues stricter import regulations or alters H-1B visa policies.
Experts believe that Modi’s close relationship with Trump could foster stronger Indo-US ties, but they also caution that India may need to adjust its strategies in certain areas to ensure continued cooperation. Rajiv Kumar, former Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, suggested that Trump’s presidency might open up new trade opportunities for India, especially as he may impose tariffs on countries he deems unfavorable, such as China. This could potentially benefit Indian exports.
However, some analysts expressed concern over the potential negative impact of Trump’s protectionist trade policies, which could put pressure on India’s exports and the rupee in the short term. According to Pinaki Chakraborty, a visiting professor at the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy, Trump’s economic philosophy could lead to a more strategic and less fair approach to globalization, affecting emerging economies like India.
As Trump’s political comeback signals a shift in US foreign policy under his “America First” doctrine, world leaders, including those from Israel and Ukraine, have quickly pledged to work with him. The trajectory of global conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, could depend on how the new president navigates his isolationist policies in the coming years.
