Modi speaks with Trump as India seeks interim deal with US

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump on Wednesday, discussing the advancement of the strategic partnership between the two nations, according to New Delhi. The bilateral talks covered various areas of cooperation, including trade, defence, energy, and critical technologies. Both leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining close engagement to propel the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership forward, as stated by Modi in a post on X.

Adding to the discussions, India's Trade Minister Piyush Goyal embarked on a visit to the United States from September 29 to October 5. During this trip, Goyal is expected to engage with US counterparts regarding the proposed bilateral trade agreement and an interim arrangement. Goyal initially arrived in Milwaukee on Tuesday, where he participated in a G20 trade ministers' meeting and engaged in a roundtable discussion with CEOs and senior executives from US manufacturing and technology firms, as reported by India's trade ministry.

Despite months of negotiations, India and the United States have yet to finalize an agreement. India is actively seeking improved terms for the proposed deal, particularly in light of recent developments. Earlier this month, India informed Washington that the implementation of new US tariff measures linked to India's purchases of Russian oil could potentially impact bilateral relations.

These ongoing discussions and concerns highlight the significance of securing a mutually beneficial interim deal between the two countries.