Washington, June 20 : US President Donald Trump heaped praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as a “great leader” and a “tough cookie” who has provided stable leadership to India for more than 12 years.
In an interview with Axios, Trump named Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping among the global leaders he admires most for their power, influence and ability to deliver results. He said Modi has led India with “great calmness” while being “a very tough guy.”
“I think Modi is very good. He stays out of wars, which is smart. India is the biggest, and Modi’s a great leader,” Trump said, adding that the United States now enjoys “fair business” relations with India.
Reflecting on India’s political landscape over the years, Trump noted that governments changed frequently before Modi’s rise, but said the Prime Minister has provided continuity and strong leadership since taking office.
Trump also praised Chinese President Xi Jinping for his stature and confidence, and later mentioned Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif among leaders he likes.
Trump and Modi recently met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France, amid efforts to strengthen bilateral ties that had witnessed strains over the past year.
