US Prez dials PM: Modi thanks 'friend' Trump for b'day wishes; assures 'new height' in India-US ties

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday thanked US President Donald Trump for his 75th birthday greetings during a phone call, in which he also backed Trump’s initiative for a peaceful resolution.PM Modi said he is "fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights". "Thank you, my friend, President Trump, for your phone call and warm greetings on my 75th birthday. Like you, I am also fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights. We support your initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict," PM Modi wrote on X.This was the second call between the two leaders within a week. On September 9, PM Modi expressed confidence that "trade negotiations will pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the India-US partnership"."India and the US are close friends and natural partners. I am confident that our trade negotiations will pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the India-US partnership,” PM Modi said in a post on X.Further assuring progress, he added, “Our teams are working to conclude these discussions at the earliest. I am also looking forward to speaking with President Trump. We will work together to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for both our people.”The shift in Trump's tone comes after the US administration imposed 25% tariffs on Indian goods, plus an additional 25% on India’s Russian oil imports, bringing total duties to 50%.Trump's softened tone has appeared since last week. Speaking at the Oval Office, Trump called PM Modi a “great Prime Minister” and said he would “always be friends” with him after multiple earlier jabs and increased tariffs. “There is nothing to worry about. We just have moments on occasion,” Trump added, but reiterated concerns over India’s oil purchases from Russia and the 50 per cent tariff imposed on Indian goods.The leaders’ exchanges through the media signal an easing of tensions between the two sides. Although the two nations have been a t crossroads over tariffs that were justified by US citing India's trade with Russia which the latter has refused to cease.