Trump calls India ‘true friend’, invites Indian Prime Minister to visit US

By Lobsang Tenchoe

DHARAMSALA, Jan 25: The US considers India a true friend and partner in addressing challenges around the world, President Donald Trump told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a phone conversation between the two leaders late Tuesday night.

President Trump called Indian Prime Minister Modi four days after assuming office and the duo discussed on opportunities to strengthen partnership between the US and India in broad areas such as economy and defense, the White House said in its readout of the conversation.

16344385_1403432443034495_1478317426_n“President Trump and Prime Minister Modi also discussed security in the region of South and Central Asia. They resolved that the United States and India stand shoulder to shoulder in the global fight against terrorism,” according to the readout posted on the White House website.

The duo also exchanged invitation to welcome each other in their respective countries and agreed to work closely to further strengthen their bilateral ties.

The Indian Prime Minister, who became the only fifth world leader whom President Trump has called from the White House, has later described the phone call a warm conversation.

“Had a warm conversation with President @realDonaldTrump late last evening,” Modi tweeted.

Earlier during his election campaign, President Trump spoke of strengthening ties with India if he is elected to power.