New York : Body language often offers subtle clues about the state of relationships between world leaders. When Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump met at the G7 Summit after a gap of 16 months, the interaction appeared noticeably more restrained than in the past. The signature bear hug that had become a hallmark of their meetings was absent, replaced by a formal handshake, with Trump briefly patting Modi on the arm.
Earlier, during the group photo session, there was also no visible exchange of greetings or eye contact between the two leaders. The overall optics sparked speculation that the traditionally warm rapport between Modi and Trump may be facing some strain. Despite recent tensions, there is still hope that India-US relations could regain momentum, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump scheduled to hold their first in-person bilateral meeting since February 2025 on Wednesday.
Modi was among the earliest global leaders to meet Trump following his election victory. However, relations between the two countries have since faced challenges, including the imposition of steep tariffs on Indian goods, Washington’s growing engagement with Pakistan, and immigration measures that have created difficulties for Indian students and professionals living in the United States.
A long-awaited trade agreement between India and the United States has also yet to materialise, adding to the list of unresolved issues between the two countries. More recently, the deaths of three Indian sailors in the Gulf of Oman during US military strikes have further complicated efforts to improve bilateral ties. The incident has cast a shadow over the gradual easing of tensions that had begun following the visit of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in May.
Speaking in Trump’s presence, Modi stressed that the world today faces a “crisis of trust” and that rebuilding confidence among nations is essential for stronger global partnerships. “The world is not suffering from a shortage of resources, but from a shortage of trust,” he said, underscoring the importance of credibility and cooperation in international relations.
Without directly naming any country, the Prime Minister also highlighted the human cost of ongoing conflicts, noting that tensions in the Middle East had claimed Indian lives.
With Trump now serving a second term, the dynamics of the relationship appear markedly different from previous years. As a result, the first bilateral meeting between Modi and Trump in more than a year is being closely watched by diplomats and analysts alike. Among the key issues expected to dominate discussions is the long-pending trade agreement between the two countries.
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