US President Donald Trump made a surprise live phone appearance during a high-profile event in Delhi attended by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where he praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and highlighted the growing closeness between India and the United States.
The event marked the 250th anniversary celebrations of the US Declaration of Independence and featured top American and Indian officials. Speaking through a live phone call played on giant screens at the venue, Trump called PM Modi a “great friend” and said he was a “big fan” of the Indian leader.
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“We have never been closer to India. India can count on me 100 per cent and our country,” Trump said. “Anything India wants, they get,” he added, while also praising Rubio as one of the “greatest” secretaries of state in US history.
Trump’s remarks came amid renewed efforts by both nations to strengthen trade and strategic ties. Earlier in the day, Rubio held talks with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and said the two countries were close to finalising a long-awaited bilateral trade agreement.
The visit by the top US diplomat comes at a crucial time, especially after recent changes in US immigration policy triggered concerns among Indian professionals and students living in America. Rubio, however, stressed that Washington views India as a vital economic and strategic partner and said both sides are working toward a “fair and sustainable” trade framework.
Analysts believe Rubio’s India visit signals a fresh push to deepen economic cooperation despite recent disagreements over tariffs and trade policies.
