The diplomatic relationship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump during the latter’s first term in office was marked by camaraderie, public displays of mutual admiration, and deepening strategic ties between India and the United States. Their interactions across multiple summits and public events shaped a strong U.S.-India strategic partnership, covering defense, trade, technology, and people-to-people ties.

From their first meeting in Washington, D.C., in 2017, to the grand ‘Howdy Modi’ event in Houston in 2019, and Trump’s historic visit to India in 2020, the two leaders showcased a unique blend of diplomacy and friendship that resonated with both nations.

As Prime Minister Modi visits the US again on February 12-13, 2025, all eyes would be on how the Modi-Trump camaraderie will continue to shape US-India ties in Trump’s second term as President.

Key Meetings in the Past
1. June 26, 2017 – Washington, D.C., USA

Significance: This was the first meeting between PM Modi and President Trump.

Focus: Strengthening the U.S.-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

Key Outcomes: Defense cooperation, counterterrorism efforts, and expanding trade ties.

2. September 22, 2019 – Houston, Texas, USA (“Howdy Modi” Event)

Significance: This was one of the largest-ever gatherings of the Indian diaspora in the U.S.

Key Moments: PM Modi introduced Trump as his ‘friend’ and publicly endorsed him for re-election.

The two leaders highlighted the importance of people-to-people ties and the Indian-American community’s contributions to the U.S.

3. February 24-25, 2020 – Ahmedabad & New Delhi, India (“Namaste Trump” Event)

Significance: This was President Trump’s first visit to India.

Ahmedabad’s Grand Welcome: PM Modi and President Trump participated in the “Namaste Trump” event, mirroring the ‘Howdy Modi’ event. Trump addressed a massive crowd at Motera Stadium, praising India’s rise as a global power.

New Delhi Bilateral Talks Focus on Defense, Trade, and Energy Cooperation: India signed a $3 billion defense deal to procure Apache and MH-60 Romeo helicopters from the US. Discussions were held on a future free trade agreement and easing business regulations.

The Diplomatic Duo
PM Modi and President Trump have frequently praised each other, reinforcing their strong personal rapport. Here are some notable statements:

1. June 24, 2017 – PM Modi’s statement before US visit: “I look forward to further strengthening our partnership with the Trump administration.”
Focus: Enhancing trade, technology, and security cooperation.

2. September 22, 2019 – Joint Address at ‘Howdy Modi’:President Trump’s statement: “PM Modi is doing an exceptional job as the leader of the world’s largest democracy.”
PM Modi’s statement: “Trump is my friend. America’s leadership is stronger under his administration.”

3. February 24, 2020 – ‘Namaste Trump’ Event
President Trump’s statement: “India gives hope to humanity, and PM Modi has united India like never before.”
PM Modi’s statement: “President Trump’s leadership has strengthened U.S.-India ties like never before.”

4. January 27, 2025 – PM Modi Congratulates Trump on Re-Election
PM Modi’s statement: “Looking forward to further strengthening our trusted partnership in President Trump’s second term.”

5. February 10, 2025 – PM Modi’s Departure Statement for U.S. Visit
PM Modi’s statement: “I look forward to meeting my friend, President Trump, to elevate our partnership in trade, technology, defense, and energy.”

Pillars of the Modi-Trump Partnership
1. Strategic & Defense Cooperation
India signed multiple defense deals with the U.S. under the Trump administration.
The U.S. became India’s second-largest arms supplier.
India signed the COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) and BECA (Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement) to enhance military collaboration.

2. Trade and Economic Relations
Despite differences over tariffs, both leaders worked towards a future free trade agreement.
The U.S. remained India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding $150 billion in 2019.
India cut import duties on Harley-Davidson motorcycles following Trump’s requests.

3. Energy Cooperation
India increased its crude oil and LNG imports from the U.S.
President Trump and PM Modi pushed for nuclear energy cooperation through Westinghouse’s involvement in India’s civil nuclear projects.

4. Indo-Pacific & Counterterrorism Collaboration
The two leaders strengthened India-U.S. cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, countering China’s growing influence.
Both nations enhanced intelligence-sharing and counterterrorism efforts.

5. People-to-People Ties
The Howdy Modi and Namaste Trump events highlighted the importance of Indian-Americans in U.S.-India relations.
The Trump administration eased H-1B visa regulations to facilitate skilled Indian professionals’ contributions to the U.S. economy.

The Modi-Trump era established a strong foundation for India-U.S. relations. Their personal bonhomie, public solidarity, and strategic vision led to breakthroughs in defense, trade, energy, and geopolitics.