Trump Hails India as 'Strategic Partner' Amidst Trade Tensions

• Donald Trump called India an "important strategic partner" in the Indo-Pacific and PM Narendra Modi a "great friend."
• Remarks followed a phone call between Modi and Trump, their third since the US imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods.
• India's immediate priority is securing relief from the 50% reciprocal tariff, with an interim arrangement discussed.
• Six rounds of Bilateral Trade Agreement talks have occurred, with only a few areas remaining unresolved.
• India's exports to the US surged over 22% in November, marking the highest for the month in a decade.

Why It Matters: Trump praises India's strategic role and Modi's friendship amidst complex trade negotiations and tariffs.