In an Axios Interview, Trump Places Modi at the Top of His Global Leaders List
Donald Trump named Narendra Modi as one of the two greatest leaders on the world stage today, making the remarks in a wide-ranging interview with Axios. When a journalist asked Trump to identify the two most significant global leaders, he answered with Modi's name alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping, then went on to offer detailed and enthusiastic praise for the Indian leader's governance, character, and approach to international affairs.
Staying Out of Wars and Trading Fairly: Trump's View of Modi and India
Trump was unequivocal in his admiration. Speaking about Modi, he said:
Modi is very good. He stays away from wars, which is a smart thing. He represents 1.5 billion people. India is actually a very big country. Modi is a great leader and we do a lot of business with him, but now we do it transparently.
Trump also highlighted India's strong economic numbers as evidence of the country's trajectory, and described the move toward transparent trade between the two nations as a positive and meaningful shift.
From Revolving-Door Governments to Over a Decade of Firm Leadership
Trump drew a sharp contrast between Modi's extended tenure and India's earlier years of political instability, saying he had watched this transformation over the course of his lifetime.
I've watched India my whole life. Governments kept changing. Someone would come for six months, someone for a year, and then suddenly Prime Minister Modi came along. He's been there for more than 12 years. In a very strong position. And he does all this very quietly. Still, he is not a quiet-natured person. He's a very tough person. I know him very well.
Trump also offered a candid admission about past trade dynamics between the two countries, making clear that while India had benefited at America's expense in earlier years, he held American leaders responsible rather than India.
They really took a lot of advantage of us. I don't blame them for that. Our leaders were foolish who let that happen.
Following the G7 Meeting: A US Pledge to Stand With India
Trump's remarks came just days after he and Modi met at the G7 Summit, where the two leaders spoke warmly of their personal relationship. When a journalist asked whether India could play a larger role in West Asia, Trump went beyond routine diplomatic language. He stated that the United States is committed to supporting India in the event of any attack on it, and he tied this commitment directly to Modi's leadership at the helm.
If someone attacks that person, we will be there. I think India plays a big role in everything. As long as they are the leader.
