The White House on Monday underscored India’s growing importance as a strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific, reaffirming the close personal rapport between U.S. President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The remarks come amid heightened global attention on regional alliances and escalating tensions with China.
Speaking at a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described India as a “very strategic ally” in the Asia-Pacific region. Responding to a question from news agency ANI, Leavitt emphasized, “The President has a very good relationship with Prime Minister Modi, and he will continue to have that.”
Her comments arrive at a pivotal moment. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is currently in the United States for the QUAD Foreign Ministers’ Meeting—an alliance comprising the U.S., India, Japan, and Australia aimed at promoting a free, inclusive, and resilient Indo-Pacific.
During his visit, Jaishankar also inaugurated a powerful exhibition at the United Nations titled “The Human Cost of Terrorism,” highlighting the devastating impact of state-sponsored terrorism—a cause India has long championed on the global stage.
#WATCH | “India remains a very strategic ally in the Asia Pacific and the President has a very good relationship with Prime Minister Modi, and he will continue to have that, “says White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt replying to ANI’s question regarding how the US… pic.twitter.com/1YGImYbum1
— ANI (@ANI) June 30, 2025
Strengthening Regional Ties as China’s Influence Grows
Leavitt’s remarks reflect a broader shift in U.S. foreign policy focus, as Washington ramps up efforts to counter Beijing’s expanding footprint across the Indo-Pacific. The QUAD alliance, which first emerged in response to the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, has steadily evolved into a diplomatic and security coalition to uphold international norms in the region.
Against this backdrop, President Trump’s reaffirmed bond with Modi is being seen as a cornerstone of America’s strategy to reinforce democratic alliances in Asia.
Major India–U.S. Trade Deal on the Verge of Breakthrough
Beyond diplomatic signaling, economic ties between the two nations appear poised for a significant leap forward. During an event at the White House on June 26 promoting Republican tax and spending initiatives, President Trump teased the prospect of a landmark trade agreement with India.
“We have one coming up, maybe with India—a very big one—where we’re going to open up India,” Trump said, hinting at substantial progress in long-running trade negotiations.
He further remarked, “In the China deal, we’re starting to open up China. Things that never really could have happened. And the relationship with every country has been very good.”
Pressed on the trade developments, Leavitt confirmed, “The President said that last week, and it remains true. I just spoke to our Secretary of Commerce. He was in the Oval Office with the President. They are finalizing these agreements, and you’ll hear from the President and his trade team very soon when it comes to India.”
Although no specific timeline was provided, her statements indicate that discussions have entered their final stages, raising hopes for a long-awaited economic partnership that could reshape U.S.–India trade dynamics.
Trump Set to Attend QUAD Summit in New Delhi
Adding to the diplomatic momentum, President Trump has accepted an invitation from Prime Minister Modi to attend the upcoming QUAD Summit in New Delhi later this year. The confirmation followed a phone conversation between the two leaders on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada, as revealed by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
The decision marks a significant gesture of support and highlights the importance the Trump administration places on India’s leadership in regional affairs.
