Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that U.S. President Donald Trump is significantly more prepared for his second term, equipped with a clear strategic vision. His remarks came during a podcast interview weeks before Washington is set to impose reciprocal tariffs.

India is among the nations facing these new tariffs starting in April, a move that could pose challenges for its exporters across sectors such as automobiles and agriculture.

Following Modi’s meeting with Trump last month, both leaders committed to resolving tariff disputes and working toward an initial trade agreement by fall 2025. Their broader objective is to boost bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.

“This time around, he appears far more prepared than before,” Modi said in a podcast interview with American computer scientist and podcaster Lex Fridman, released on Sunday. Referring to Trump’s second term, which began in January, Modi added, “He has a well-structured roadmap in place, with clearly defined steps leading toward his goals.”

During the three-hour conversation, Modi touched on topics ranging from diplomacy and artificial intelligence to his early life. Fridman described the exchange as one of the most "powerful" discussions he had ever experienced.

Modi spoke highly of Trump, commending his humility and generosity while emphasizing the strong rapport between them. “His approach reflects his ‘America First’ philosophy, just as I prioritize ‘India First.’ That’s why we connect so well,” he noted.

India’s relationship with China saw improvements last year after a breakthrough agreement aimed at reducing military tensions along their Himalayan border, following discussions between Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Russia.

"Gradually, trust, enthusiasm, and positive energy will be restored," Modi remarked, as both nations strive to rebuild ties after a military standoff in 2020. He acknowledged that the process would take time, given the five-year gap, but stressed that both sides are committed to ensuring their differences “do not escalate into disputes.”

China’s foreign ministry welcomed Modi’s comments, noting that the October meeting between Xi and Modi laid the groundwork for improved relations. “The two nations should be partners in each other’s success,” a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson stated, emphasizing that cooperation between "the dragon and the elephant" is the most viable path forward.

On relations with longtime rival Pakistan, Modi expressed hope for peace but acknowledged past challenges.

“Every sincere effort toward peace has been met with hostility and betrayal,” he said, adding, “We truly hope wisdom prevails and they choose the path of reconciliation.”

Pakistan’s foreign ministry swiftly condemned Modi’s remarks as “misleading and one-sided,” accusing India of "fomenting terrorism on Pakistan’s soil," a claim New Delhi has consistently denied.

“Pakistan has always supported constructive dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues, including the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir,” a Pakistani foreign ministry spokesperson said in response.