Washington: US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that trade negotiations with India have resumed, calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a “very good friend.” The move marks a thaw after weeks of tariff tensions.

“I am pleased to announce that India and the United States are continuing negotiations to address trade barriers between our two nations,” Trump posted on Truth Social. He added he was confident talks would “conclude successfully for both countries.”

Trump’s comments follow his recent statement at a White House briefing where he called Modi a “great Prime Minister” and reassured that “India and the United States have a special relationship.”

Responding to Trump’s remarks, PM Modi wrote on X that he “deeply appreciates and fully reciprocates” the sentiments, reaffirming the “positive and forward-looking Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.”

Indian Ambassador Vinay Kwatra also met US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker on Monday, underscoring ongoing engagement through bilateral and Quad initiatives.

The talks come after Trump’s August 27 decision to impose 50% tariffs on Indian imports, citing India’s continued purchase of Russian oil amid the Ukraine conflict.