NEW DELHI: Praising Donald Trump’s bravery and tenacity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked that his bond with the US President stems from their shared commitment to prioritizing their respective nations and devoting themselves to national service.
“Despite the shooting incident in July 2024, he remained resolutely committed to America. His life was dedicated to his nation. Trump’s determination to survive and advocate for the US even after being shot resonates with me as it embodies his America First ethos, just as I subscribe to India First. This is why I feel a strong connection with Trump,” the Prime Minister articulated.
Modi’s enthusiastic support for Trump came during a discussion on a podcast hosted by Lex Fridman, a noted researcher and podcaster at MIT, amidst a backdrop where US allies, particularly in Europe and Canada, face significant challenges due to the President’s approach, criticized by some as leading America towards isolationism.
India finds itself in a precarious position due to Trump’s tariff disputes but remains hopeful for a reprieve from reciprocal tariffs by the April 2 deadline, tied to ongoing trade negotiations.
I’m not neutral, I strive for peace: PM on Ukraine
Modi remarked that Trump was significantly more equipped during his second term, with a clear strategy and actionable plans in place, and noted that he had assembled a "strong, capable" team for support.
During the podcast, Modi reflected on the recent warming of relations with China, indicating that normal conditions had returned to the border following his meeting with President Xi Jinping last year, and suggested that trust and enthusiasm in bilateral relations would gradually rejuvenate. He conveyed his intent to restore the state of affairs to what they were prior to 2020.
Addressing Pakistan, Modi characterized it as the epicenter of terrorism and lamented that all efforts by India for reconciliation had met resistance, expressing hope that the people of Pakistan would choose a future devoid of violence.
On the issue of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Modi firmly reiterated India’s stance advocating for a return to negotiations.
“I can convey to President Putin that this is not the era of war. I would also remind President Zelensky that irrespective of the number of allies backing you, a resolution will never materialize on the battlefield. Ukraine may engage in numerous discussions with its allies, yet they will yield no results. Real dialogue must include both parties,” he asserted, adding that the current context presents an opportunity for substantive discussions between Russia and Ukraine. “I am not neutral. I am committed to peace,” he emphasized, reiterating India’s position while expressing concern regarding the war’s impact on the Global South.
When questioned about his relationship with Trump, Modi appreciated the “trust” the President has in him. “Even after being shot, he remained unwaveringly devoted to America. His life was dedicated to his nation. Trump’s resolve to fight for the US even in the aftermath of being shot resonates with me because it reflects his America First principle, similar to how I embrace Nation First. I stand for India First, and this is why I have such a strong connection with Trump,” the PM stated.
When asked what he admired about Trump, Modi recalled how, during his first term, the President disregarded security protocols and agreed to his request to take a victory lap around the stadium at the ‘Howdy Modi’ event in Houston. “I was moved by his courage and trust in me,” he remarked.
On Trump referring to him as a tough negotiator, Modi stated he always prioritizes India’s interests. “Thus, in every forum, I advocate for India’s interests not to harm anyone, but in a constructive manner, which is why no one takes offense,” he noted.
Discussing China, Modi acknowledged the natural differences between the two nations but emphasized the importance of preventing these from escalating into conflicts. “We focus on dialogue and cooperation rather than discord. Following my recent meeting with President Xi, we are witnessing a return to normalcy along the border. We are currently working to restore conditions to what they were prior to 2020. Gradually, trust, enthusiasm, and energy will rebound,” he stated.
“Admittedly, this restoration will require time because of the five-year gap. Our collaboration is crucial for global stability and prosperity. As the 21st century is poised to be Asia’s century, we aspire for India and China to engage in healthy competition. Competition is not inherently negative, but it should never evolve into conflict,” he added.
