Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held a productive phone conversation on Thursday. This Modi Trump call focusing on trade, defence and regional stability amid ongoing tariff negotiations.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone call with US President Donald Trump on December 11, 2025. The leaders reviewed progress in bilateral relations. They discussed key areas like trade and defence. The conversation lasted about 30 minutes. It took place from New Delhi and Washington. This marks the fourth such Modi Trump call this year.
This exchange underscores the deepening India-US partnership. It holds significance for South Asia. Stronger ties could counterbalance China’s influence in the region. They may stabilise trade flows vital for economies in India and Pakistan. Enhanced defence cooperation might ease border tensions. Energy deals could reduce reliance on volatile suppliers. Overall, it fosters prosperity and security across the subcontinent.
Modi Speaks to Trump on Strategic Priorities
Prime Minister Modi described the interaction as warm and engaging. He shared details on social media platform X. “Had a very warm and engaging conversation with President Trump,” Modi posted. “We reviewed the progress in our bilateral relations and discussed regional and international developments. India and the US will continue to work together for global peace, stability and prosperity.”
The Ministry of External Affairs issued an official statement confirming the details. It echoed Modi’s remarks. The call built on prior discussions. Earlier interactions in October and November covered similar ground. Those focused on tariff relief and investment flows.
Officials highlighted the timing. It comes amid US tariffs of 50% on select Indian goods. New Delhi pushes for exemptions. The leaders agreed to sustain momentum. They aim to resolve disputes by mid-2026.
India US Relations Progress in Trade and Beyond
India US relations progress formed the core of the dialogue. The two nations exchanged views on economic cooperation. Bilateral trade hit USD 190 billion last fiscal year. Exports from India to the US reached USD 78 billion. Key sectors include pharmaceuticals and textiles.
Data from the US Trade Representative shows steady growth. Imports from India rose 8% year-on-year. Yet challenges persist. Tariffs imposed in September 2025 affected steel and electronics. Indian exports in those categories dropped 12%.
The call addressed these hurdles. Both sides committed to fair negotiations. A joint working group meets next month. It will tackle non-tariff barriers. Progress here could unlock USD 50 billion in new deals.
Defence ties also advanced. The US approved sales worth USD 20 billion since 2020. Recent pacts cover drones and missiles. India eyes co-production of fighter jets. This bolsters regional deterrence.
Energy emerged as another pillar. India imports 85% of its oil. Talks touched on LNG supplies from the US. Volumes could double to 20 million tonnes annually by 2027. This diversifies sources away from the Middle East.
Modi Trump Trade Talks Gain Momentum
Modi Trump trade talks intensified during the session. The leaders assessed ongoing negotiations. A mini-deal on agriculture and services remains in sight. It could conclude by March 2026.
The US seeks greater market access. India demands reciprocity on visas. H-1B approvals for Indians number 70,000 yearly. Streamlining could aid tech firms.
Regional implications run deep. Pakistan watches closely. US-India defence pacts might shift power dynamics. Trade pacts could reroute supply chains through India. This impacts Pakistani exports worth USD 3 billion to the US.
South Asian stability benefits. Joint initiatives on counter-terrorism continue. The US provides USD 100 million in aid annually. Focus areas include intelligence sharing.
Broader global issues surfaced. The duo discussed Ukraine and Gaza. They aligned on multilateral forums. India supports UN reforms. The US backs its G20 role.
Background
This Modi Trump call follows a pattern. The first in February 2025 set the tone post-Trump’s inauguration. It covered people-to-people ties. The second in October reviewed tariff impacts. The third in November promised a Trump visit to India.
Bilateral ties date to 1947. Milestones include the 2008 nuclear deal. Trade surged under Modi. From USD 60 billion in 2014 to current levels.
Challenges linger. Intellectual property disputes affect pharma. Geopolitical strains involve Russia. India buys discounted oil despite US sanctions.
What’s Next
Future steps include a virtual summit in January 2026. In-person meetings loom during Trump’s Asia tour. A comprehensive trade agreement targets 2027.
The Modi Trump call sets a positive trajectory. It promises deeper integration. South Asia stands to gain from shared prosperity.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, December 12th, 2025
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