Modi, Trump discuss bilateral ties in trade, defence, energy over phone

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday had a telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump to evaluate progress in bilateral ties and the disussion covered major areas of mutual interest and strategic cooperation, including trade, defence and energy. The two leaders spoke against the backdrop of heightened trade friction following the enactment of the 'Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026', which authorises tariffs of up to 100 per cent on nations purchasing Russian oil and gas, including India and China.
Prime Minister Modi and President Trump exchanged views on regional and international developments and discussed ongoing efforts to promote global peace and security, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and agreed to maintain close engagement to deepen cooperation for the benefit of the people of both countries, the statement said.  "The two leaders reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation across trade, defence, energy, critical technologies and other areas of mutual interest," the statement said.Modi said in a post on X that he had a productive conversation with President Trump.
In a post on X, US envoy to India Sergio Gor said, "A very good call between President Trump and Prime Minster Modi!". India and the US in February announced the finalisation of the framework for the first phase of the bilateral trade agreement (BTA). However, changes in the tariff landscape in the US have led to further negotiations on the pact. At present, Indian goods attract an additional 10 per cent duty. It was imposed under a Sec 301 probe, citing concerns related to "forced labour". 
India's exports to the US increased by 21.83 per cent to USD 8.4 billion. Imports were up 65.78 per cent to USD 5.97 billion. During April-August 2026-27, the country's merchandise exports to the US grew 6.17 per cent to USD 42.8 billion, while imports increased 29.6 per cent to USD 28 billion. The US was the largest trading partner of India in 2025-26. It was UD 132.2 billion (exports USD 86.51 billion and imports USD 45.62 billion). India's major merchandise exports include electronic goods, engineering products, and drugs and pharmaceuticals, while imports include crude petroleum, electronic items, and industrial machinery.