Modi-Trump hug sets stage for goodwill amid tariff minefield: Analysis

President Donald Trump hugging India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a news conference in the East Room of the White House, on Feb 13, 2025. - AP

NEW DELHI: The much-awaited hug came. Their hands clasped for handshakes that lingered. Smiles and fulsome praises were exchanged.

All this was ample indication that the bromance between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump remains alive. Since they met for the first time in 2017 as leaders, they have cultivated a close relationship.