Modi: I Believe in ‘India First’ Just Like Trump’s ‘America First,’ That’s Why We Have a Good Friendship

Modi: I Believe in ‘India First’ Just Like Trump’s ‘America First,’ That’s Why We Have a Good Friendship

New Delhi, March 17 – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stated that U.S. President Donald Trump is much more prepared in his second term and is advancing with a clear roadmap. Modi made these remarks in a podcast interview with American computer scientist and podcaster Lex Fridman on Sunday.

U.S. Tariffs and Trade Agreement

Starting in April, Washington’s new tariff policy may create trade challenges for several countries, including India, which could be concerning for India’s automobile and agricultural export industries.

Following last month’s meeting between Modi and Trump, both countries have agreed to resolve tariff-related trade issues and plan to sign a preliminary trade agreement by 2025. Additionally, they have set a bilateral trade target of $500 billion by 2030.

Modi stated, "This time, he (Trump) is much more prepared. He has a clear roadmap, and every step is systematically planned to help him achieve his goals."

During the podcast interview, Modi praised Trump’s leadership, saying, "Just as Trump believes in the ‘America First’ policy, I believe in the ‘India First’ policy. That’s why we have a strong understanding and a good friendship."

Relations with China and Pakistan

Regarding India's relations with China, Modi mentioned that during a 2023 meeting in Russia, he and Chinese President Xi Jinping reached an important agreement to reduce military tensions along their Himalayan border.

He remarked, "Gradually, trust, enthusiasm, and stability will return. However, it will take some time because distance has grown between us over the past five years."

On relations with Pakistan, Modi commented, "Every peace effort has faced hostility and betrayal. However, we remain hopeful that they will consciously choose the path of peace."

The positive aspects of the Modi-Trump relationship and discussions on rebuilding ties with China and Pakistan have become key topics in international politics.