New Delhi: US President Donald Trump on Monday personally called Prime Minister Narendra Modi to extend birthday wishes, describing him as a “friend” and lauding his leadership. The gesture, which came on Modi’s 75th birthday, was accompanied by warm social media exchanges and a reaffirmation of commitment to deepen India-US ties.
“Just had a wonderful phone call with my friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I wished him a very Happy Birthday! He is doing a tremendous job. Narendra: Thank you for your support on ending the War between Russia and Ukraine!” Trump posted on Truth Social.
Modi responded on X (formerly Twitter): “Like you, I am also fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights,” while acknowledging Trump’s efforts toward peace in Ukraine.
Thank you, my friend, President Trump, for your phone call and warm greetings on my 75th birthday. Like you, I am also fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights. We support your initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 16, 2025
The birthday call coincided with renewed trade negotiations between New Delhi and Washington. Officials from both countries have described the talks as “positive,” though sticking points remain. The U.S. continues to push India to curb purchases of Russian oil, which it says undercut global pressure on Moscow, while India is standing firm on protecting domestic farmers by limiting imports of American farm and dairy products, including corn.
The Indo-US relationship
India and the US have in recent years branded their engagement as a “Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership,” spanning trade, technology, defence, and regional security. However, frictions emerged earlier this year when Trump administration officials and advisors publicly criticised India’s trade practices and, at times, Modi himself. The tone has softened in recent weeks, with both governments signalling intent to move beyond disputes.
For Modi, the exchange with Trump comes at a symbolic moment — not just his milestone birthday, but also a period when India is asserting itself as a major power balancing relations with Washington, Moscow, and other global players. For Trump, who is seeking to end the protracted Ukraine conflict while strengthening economic links in Asia, India’s role remains pivotal.