Trump’s Victory: Modi looks forward to strengthening India-US ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Donald Trump are set to work together again after Trump’s victory in the 2024 US presidential election. Their alliance, which began in 2017, has been marked by strong diplomatic ties and strategic cooperation.

Modi congratulated Trump on his win, posting on X, “Heartiest congratulations my friend @realDonaldTrump on your historic election victory.” He expressed his eagerness to collaborate and strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership, promoting global peace, stability, and prosperity.

Their relationship has been built on mutual admiration and cooperation. In February 2020, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Donald Trump joined forces in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, in an event that resembled an election rally for Trump. The aim was to connect with the influential Gujarati and Indian community, a crucial demographic in US elections. This gathering was part of Trump’s efforts to woo Indian-American voters, and Modi’s presence lent significant weight to his campaign.

Just six months prior to this event, Modi and Trump shared the stage at the “Howdy Modi” rally in Houston, Texas, in September 2019 where Modi cheered for Trump, “Abki baar, Trump sarkar”. This visit happened just a month after the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir in August. Trump did not win, the November 2020 election, losing to Joe Biden, but did not go into oblivion.

But the two never lost touch with each other. Trump in his race to presidency this year praised Modi and has always referred to him as a ‘good friend’.

The first official meeting between Trump and Modi took place in Washington DC in 2017 where the two hugged each other in front of reporters.  Modi was also the first foreign dignitary to have dinner at the White House with Trump.

The Trump administration’s strong words on Pakistan and terror were seen as a major diplomatic victory for India.