US President Donald Trump announced plans to visit India next year, describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “great man” and a “friend,” while emphasizing the strength of ongoing India-US relations.

Speaking at a press conference at the White House on Thursday, Trump confirmed that trade talks between the two nations are progressing well. “He’s a friend of mine, and we speak, and he wants me to go there. We’ll figure that out. I’ll go… He’s a great man and I’ll be going,” Trump said, when asked about the possibility of visiting India in 2026.

Recalling his last state visit to India in 2020, Trump said, “I had a great trip there with the Prime Minister,” adding that the visit left him with fond memories of the warmth and enthusiasm shown by the Indian people.

The US President also claimed that India has “largely stopped buying oil from Russia,” a statement reflecting Washington’s continued attention to global energy and trade realignments.

Trump’s remarks follow recent comments from the White House reaffirming his positive outlook toward New Delhi. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said earlier this week that the President “feels very positive and strongly” about the bilateral relationship and holds “great respect” for Prime Minister Modi.

“The President and his trade team continue to be in very serious discussions with India with respect to that topic,” Leavitt stated, noting that Trump’s administration is focused on strengthening economic and strategic cooperation.

She also mentioned Trump’s participation in last month’s Diwali celebrations at the White House, underscoring his personal engagement with the Indian American community. “He recently spoke to Prime Minister directly when he celebrated Diwali in the Oval Office with many high-ranking Indian American officials. We have a great US Ambassador to India in Mr. Sergio Gor, who will represent our country very well,” she said.

On October 21, Trump hosted the Diwali event, where he praised Prime Minister Modi as “a great person” and expressed his affection for “the people of India.”

With both leaders maintaining regular communication, Trump’s upcoming visit is expected to reinforce trade, defense, and diplomatic cooperation — signaling a renewed phase in India-US ties.