• Source:JND

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said he had a telephonic conversation with US President Donald Trump, during which he congratulated him on the “success of the historic Gaza peace plan” and reviewed progress in ongoing India–US trade negotiations.  The call came hours after Trump announced on his Truth Social platform that Israel and Hamas had agreed to a deal that would see the release of all hostages held in Gaza and the withdrawal of Israeli forces to a mutually agreed line as the first step toward what he described as a “Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace.”

In a post on X, Modi welcomed the breakthrough while praising Trump’s initiative and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s “strong leadership.” He expressed hope that the release of hostages and humanitarian assistance to Gaza would provide much-needed relief to civilians and lay the foundation for lasting peace in the region.

Focus Shifts To Trade Talks

In addition to his comments on the peace plan, Modi also emphasised the consistent development in India–US trade talks. "Spoke with my friend, President Trump, and congratulated him on the Gaza peace plan's success. Also discussed the favourable progress made in trade talks. Decided to remain in close contact during the next few weeks," Modi tweeted.

The remarks were preceded by Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal's comments earlier this week, affirming that talks on the proposed bilateral trade agreement (BTA) were proceeding actively. Addressing on 7 October 2025, Goyal stated both nations were gearing up toward the November 2025 deadline for completion of the pact.

“We are in constant dialogue with the USA (on the trade pact), and talks are on at various levels. We will give more information on this soon on how we are thinking to take it forward,” Goyal said, according to news agency PTI.

November Deadline In Focus

When asked whether India and the US could meet the ambitious November target, Goyal maintained optimism, saying, “there is every possibility.” He also noted that the next round of negotiations could be held in person, although the ongoing US government shutdown might impact the timing and logistics of the talks.