US and India Solidify Historic Power Trade Corridor and Defense Partnership

In a landmark press conference, US President Donald Trump hailed Indian PM Narendra Modi as a formidable negotiator. The two nations plan to jointly develop the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and bolster defense ties with significant military sales while committing to the Quad partnership for Indo-Pacific peace.

In a significant declaration on Thursday, President Donald Trump described Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "much tougher negotiator" than himself, indicating strong diplomatic rapport between the two leaders. Trump's comments were made during a joint press conference held amidst discussions on enhancing bilateral relations.

Among the notable highlights of their meeting was the decision for the US and India to collaborate on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). President Trump articulated the corridor's potential as one of history's greatest trade routes, designed to span from India to the US, linking a network of roads, railways, and undersea cables.

Concurrently, President Trump revealed plans to boost military sales to India, including the provision of F35 Stealth fighters, while also strengthening commitments under the Quad partnership. Energy agreements were also cemented, positioning the US as a principal oil and natural gas supplier to India.

(With inputs from agencies.)