While some analysts note ‘trepidation’, others say US seeks deeper trade and defence ties with India as leverage in talks with China.

Regarding the India-China border conflict, Trump acknowledged their intensity and offered to mediate if needed. He stated, "I look at India, I do see the skirmishes on the border, which are quite vicious, and I guess they continue to go on. If I could be of help, I'd love to help, because that should be stopped."

President Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a joint conference Thursday afternoon following their meeting at the White House. Trump invited Modi to Washington earlier this month after the two leaders spoke on the phone about expanding U.