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As Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his visit to the United States and headed back to New Delhi, American media showered praise on his adept handling of US President Donald Trump, calling it a “masterclass for other leaders around the world.”
PM Modi, among the first world leaders to meet Trump and engage in bilateral talks, was in Washington on the same day Trump announced sweeping reciprocal tariffs on US allies and competitors.
President Trump, who previously labeled India a “tariff king” and a “massive abuser of tariffs,” expressed his excitement to meet PM Modi. “Prime Minister Modi is a great leader,” Trump stated, adding, “We’re going to make some wonderful trade deals for India and the US.”
Despite the pressure of Trump’s tariff announcement that day, PM Modi turned the bilateral meeting into a significant opportunity. According to the joint statement, the US and India secured substantial trade, energy, defense, security, manufacturing, and technology agreements.
CNN’s senior journalist Will Ripley remarked, “We have seen a very positive meeting with Trump and Prime Minister Modi – this is a masterclass for other leaders worldwide on how to approach a negotiation with President Trump.” He noted that PM Modi skillfully navigated the potential challenges, with both sides walking away with valuable deliverables on trade, energy, and military cooperation.
Indian Prime Minister Modi understood the assignment in his 8th meeting with President Trump. It could've been bad. Modi was in DC on the same day Trump announced dreaded reciprocal tariffs. Despite trade friction, both sides walked away with deliverables on a potential trade… pic.twitter.com/73xjKfVP6w
— Will Ripley (@willripleyCNN) February 14, 2025
By the end of the meeting, both nations announced plans to fast-track negotiations on a trade deal. India secured more US investment in nuclear energy and the offer of F-35 stealth fighter jets. “Both sides came out with gains,” Ripley observed.
PM Modi’s slogan ‘MIGA + MAGA = MEGA – a mega partnership for prosperity’ resonated with Trump, showcasing the clever branding that he appreciates.
At a press briefing, President Trump praised PM Modi’s negotiating skills, stating, “He (PM Modi) is a much tougher negotiator than me and a much better negotiator than me. There is no contest.”
In their joint statement, India and the US pledged to more than double two-way trade to USD 500 billion by 2030 and announced plans for a bilateral trade agreement to reduce duties and enhance market access in both nations.
