Despite recent friendly exchanges between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump, differences have resurfaced regarding their latest conversation. India has denied that Pakistan was discussed during Trump’s Diwali phone call to Modi, countering the U.S. president’s statement made earlier this week.
No Discussion on Pakistan
Trump claimed that he spoke with Modi about avoiding a war between India and Pakistan. However, Indian officials clarified that “Pakistan was not discussed during the call.” This is the second time in two weeks that India has disputed Trump’s version of events. Earlier, India also denied Trump’s remark that Modi had agreed to stop buying oil from Russia.
Modi to Join ASEAN Summit Virtually
PM Modi is expected to attend the upcoming ASEAN and East Asia summits in Kuala Lumpur virtually due to scheduling constraints related to the Bihar elections and Chhath Puja celebrations. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is likely to represent India in person at the meetings, scheduled from October 26 to 28, 2025. Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that Modi will join the ASEAN-India summit online.
Trade Talks Ongoing
India and the United States continue discussions on a bilateral trade agreement. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal recently visited Washington for two days of meetings described as “constructive and cordial.” However, officials indicate that no major breakthrough has been achieved yet. This lack of progress is cited as one reason Modi is unlikely to meet Trump in person soon.
Strains in India–US Relations
Relations between India and the U.S. have faced challenges after Trump imposed a 25% reciprocal tariff on Indian exports and additional duties linked to India’s Russian oil imports. India has also expressed unease over Trump’s engagement with Pakistan’s leadership, especially regarding his claim that he ended hostilities between India and Pakistan earlier this year.
ASEAN Summit Overview
The 47th ASEAN Summit will be held in Kuala Lumpur from October 26–28, 2025, bringing together leaders from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia. India’s partnership with ASEAN began in 1992 and evolved into a strategic partnership by 2012. Modi has typically led India’s delegation at both the ASEAN-India and East Asia summits.
Strengthening Malaysia–India Ties
Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim said he recently spoke with an Indian representative regarding bilateral relations. He described India as a key partner for Malaysia in trade, technology, education, and regional security. Ibrahim confirmed that Modi will attend the Kuala Lumpur meetings virtually due to Diwali celebrations in India.
