MEA Affirms Friendly Ties Between Modi and Trump

Background of the Relationship

NEW DELHI: On Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) sought to clarify recent statements made by former US President Donald Trump, emphasizing that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump share a friendly relationship grounded in mutual respect.

Official Statement from the MEA

During a weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal commented, "Prime Minister Modi and President Trump have a friendly relationship and have always addressed each other with mutual respect as per diplomatic norms."

Trump’s Recent Remarks

The MEA’s statement follows claims made by Trump earlier in the week at the House GOP Member Retreat. Trump alleged that PM Modi expressed concerns over delays in the delivery of US-made Apache attack helicopters, referring to him as "sir."

Clarification on Apache Helicopter Orders

Trump’s assertion suggested that India had ordered 68 Apache helicopters and had been waiting for years for their delivery. However, official records indicate that India has only ordered 28 AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopters from the US, which were all delivered by December 2025. The procurement occurred in two separate phases, not as a single large order. Additionally, India has acquired 15 CH-47F Chinook helicopters from Boeing, delivered between 2019 and 2020. Even with these purchases combined, the total count is 43 helicopters, not 68.

Addressing Exaggerated Claims

Critics suggest that Trump’s statements on figures and timelines often contain exaggerations. For instance, he previously claimed he compelled India and Pakistan into a truce through tariff threats.

MEA’s Response to Trade Deal Claims

The MEA further refuted comments by US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who suggested that PM Modi’s reluctance to communicate with Trump had hampered a US-India trade agreement. Jaiswal clarified that PM Modi and Trump had spoken on eight occasions in 2025, highlighting the ongoing dialogue between the two leaders.

Conclusion

The MEA’s reaffirmation of the cordial relationship between PM Modi and President Trump underscores the commitment to maintaining respectful diplomatic engagements despite recent controversies and claims.