Former US President Donald Trump conveyed a strong message of support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India, affirming that the nation could count on him “100%.” These remarks were part of a recorded address played during a US Embassy event in New Delhi, celebrating 250 years of American independence.
During the event, attended by senior American and Indian officials including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Trump expressed his admiration for the Indian Prime Minister. “I love the Prime Minister. Modi is great. He's my friend. I'm a big, big fan of Prime Minister Modi,” Trump stated in his message.
Strengthening US-India Bilateral Ties
Trump emphasized the robust nature of the bilateral relationship between the United States and India. “You're great. We've never been closer to India, and India can count on me 100% and our country. If they ever need help, they know who to call. They call right here,” he asserted, highlighting a direct line of communication.
US Ambassador Sergio Gor, who played Trump’s message live, reinforced the sentiment. Gor noted that in his conversations with President Trump, one of the first questions always concerned the well-being of “my friend, the Prime Minister (Modi).” This, Gor explained, underscored the personal connection and enduring nature of the relationship.
Rubio Dispels Concerns Over US-India Partnership
Earlier in the day, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed concerns that Washington’s ties with New Delhi might have weakened. Rubio firmly rejected such claims, stating, “The US-India relationship has not lost any momentum.” He clarified that America's engagement with other nations, including Pakistan, should not be perceived as detrimental to its strategic alliance with India.
“I don't view our relation with any country in the world as coming at the expense of our strategic alliance with India,” Rubio affirmed during a joint appearance with EAM S. Jaishankar. Rubio also praised Jaishankar, calling him “a truly wise gentleman” and expressing his “tremendous esteem and respect” for the Indian foreign minister.