'You have a great prime minister': Trump praises 'very smart man' PM Modi amidst trade tensions

US President Donald Trump on Friday (local time) expressed optimism about the ongoing India-US tariff talks and praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, referring to him as a "very smart man" and a "great friend."

While answering questions during an Interaction with reporters at the swearing-in ceremony of the US attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba, Trump lauded PM Modi's leadership qualities, describing him as a "great prime minister."

Trump said, "Prime Minister Modi was here just recently, and we've always been very good friends."

"India is one of the highest tariffing nations in the world... They're very smart. He (PM Modi) is a very smart man and a great friend of mine. We had very good talks. I think it's going to work out very well between India and our country. And I want to say you have a great prime minister," he added.