Trump and Modi Spoke 8 Times in 2025, MEA Confirms Amid Lutnick's Trade Deal Claim

• MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed PM Modi and US President Trump spoke eight times in 2025, refuting claims about a lack of communication.
• Jaiswal stated that Modi and Trump share a friendly relationship and have always addressed each other with mutual respect.
• The MEA's statement comes after US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick claimed the India-US trade deal stalled because Modi didn't call Trump.
• Lutnick detailed Trump's 'staircase' deal-making approach, where early movers get the best terms, and India missed its window.
• India is now further back in the line for a trade deal, according to Lutnick, as other countries like Indonesia, Philippines, and Vietnam secured agreements.

Why It Matters: MEA confirms Modi-Trump spoke eight times in 2025, countering Lutnick's claim on stalled trade deal.