WASHINGTON D.C.: United States President Donald Trump on Thursday heaped praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a "great man" and a "friend," and signalled that he may visit India next year (2026) as negotiators from both countries intensify efforts to finalize a comprehensive bilateral trade agreement.Sun Hat​​ for Men Women, Breathable Summer Hat for Travel, Hiking, Gardening,

President Trump’s Remarks:

Speaking to reporters at the White House, President Trump confirmed his ongoing contact and warm personal rapport with the Indian Prime Minister.

Praise for Modi: "He is a friend of mine, and we speak. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a great man and I will be going," Trump stated.

Hint at Visit: When asked directly about the possibility of traveling to India next year, the US President responded, "It could be, yes." Trump added that PM Modi has invited him, stating, "He wants me to go there. We will figure that out, I will go."

Trade and Russia: The President noted that trade talks were "going good" and reiterated his recent claim that India had "largely stopped buying oil from Russia," a contentious issue that led to the US imposing a 50% tariff on certain Indian goods.Also Read; Vande Mataram: The Battle Cry of the Freedom Struggle and Swadeshi Spirit; A Nightmare for the British

Trade Negotiations Status:

The remarks come at a time when the trade relationship between the two strategic partners is under intense negotiation, aiming to boost bilateral trade from the current $191 billion to $500 billion by 2030.

Ongoing Discussions: Negotiating teams from India and the US have completed five rounds of talks since March, working to finalize the first phase of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).

Tariff Backdrop: The discussions are proceeding under the shadow of the 50% tariffs—including a 25% base duty and an additional 25% penalty—that the US imposed on Indian exports over New Delhi's continued purchase of Russian crude oil.

President Trump’s potential visit to India next year is viewed as a major diplomatic opportunity that could provide the final political impetus needed to conclude the trade deal and solidify cooperation between the world's two largest democracies