Key facts
- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump met at the G7 summit in France.
- Modi emphasized the vital importance of the Strait of Hormuz for the global economy and international trade.
- Modi highlighted the safety of Indian seafarers working in the Strait of Hormuz region as a top priority.
- Trump stated that the U.S. would defend India if attacked.
- The leaders discussed ongoing trade deals between the two nations.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump held discussions on trade and regional security during the G7 summit in France. Modi underscored the critical importance of the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint for global energy and trade, stating that its security is vital for the global economy and international trade.
Modi specifically raised concerns about the safety of Indian seafarers working in the Strait of Hormuz region, emphasizing that their well-being is of utmost importance to New Delhi. He expressed confidence that this issue would be prioritized in the implementation of the U.S. peace agreement with Iran. Trump responded by acknowledging the risks of the profession and affirmed that the United States would defend India if attacked, referencing the strong defense relationship between the two nations.
The meeting also touched upon ongoing trade negotiations between the U.S. and India. Trump described Modi as a 'tough negotiator' and indicated a future visit to India. Relations between the two countries have seen fluctuations, with recent tensions arising from U.S. tariffs on Indian goods, India's purchase of Russian oil, and the killing of Indian sailors in Gulf attacks.