PM Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held productive telephone talks covering trade, defence, energy, critical technologies and global security.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held a telephone conversation on Wednesday, September 30, reviewing cooperation between India and the United States across trade, defence, energy and critical technologies.
Modi described the discussion as “productive” and said both leaders agreed to remain closely engaged to advance the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.
“We also exchanged views on regional and international issues,” the prime minister said after the call.
Leaders Review India-US Strategic Cooperation
According to an official statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, Modi and Trump discussed progress in several pillars of the bilateral relationship, including:
- Trade and investment
- Defence and security cooperation
- Energy ties
- Critical and emerging technologies
- Regional and international developments
- Global peace and security
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and maintaining regular communication. No specific agreement or new policy initiative was announced following the conversation.
Phone Call Comes Amid Trade Negotiations
The discussion took place as India and the United States continued negotiations over a proposed bilateral trade agreement and an interim arrangement.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is visiting the United States from September 29 to October 5 for meetings with American officials and business leaders. India has said it is seeking a balanced and mutually beneficial agreement that addresses the interests of businesses and consumers in both countries.
Goyal also attended a roundtable involving executives from American manufacturing and technology companies and was scheduled to participate in a G20 trade ministers’ meeting in Wisconsin.
India and the US have held months of negotiations but have yet to finalise an agreement. Differences over tariffs, market access and India’s purchases of Russian oil have complicated the talks.
Defence, Energy and Technology Remain Key Pillars
Defence cooperation remains a major component of the partnership, covering military exercises, maritime security, equipment procurement and defence manufacturing.
Energy discussions come as Washington seeks greater access to India’s rapidly expanding market. New Delhi, meanwhile, continues to prioritise affordable and reliable supplies while diversifying its crude oil, natural gas and clean-energy partnerships.
Critical technologies—including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, telecommunications and resilient supply chains—have also emerged as an increasingly important area of cooperation.
The latest telephone conversation signals an effort by both leaders to sustain political engagement despite unresolved trade and geopolitical differences.
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