Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump shared a brief but significant interaction during the G7 Summit outreach session in Evian, France. The meeting marked their first face-to-face encounter in 16 months and attracted considerable attention amid evolving India-US relations.

The two leaders exchanged greetings and shook hands during the summit proceedings. They were also seated next to each other during the outreach session, providing an opportunity for informal discussions ahead of their scheduled bilateral meeting.

First In-Person Meeting Since Trump's Return to Office

The interaction is notable because it was the first direct meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump since the latter began his second term in the White House. Their previous in-person engagement took place during Modi's visit to Washington in February 2025.

While the exchange in Evian was brief, it is being viewed as an important diplomatic moment ahead of more detailed talks between the two leaders.

Full Bilateral Meeting Scheduled

According to the summit schedule, Prime Minister Modi and President Trump are expected to hold a formal bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit. The talks are scheduled for 6:30 PM IST and are likely to focus on key areas of cooperation between India and the United States.

Observers expect discussions on trade, strategic partnerships, defense cooperation, technology, and regional security issues.

Meeting Comes Amid Key Diplomatic Challenges

The interaction takes place at a crucial time for India-US relations. Recent months have witnessed discussions over trade policies, tariff-related concerns, and broader geopolitical developments.

Both countries continue to remain important strategic partners, and the upcoming bilateral talks are expected to address areas of mutual interest while exploring opportunities to strengthen cooperation.

World Leaders Gather for G7 Family Photo

Before the outreach session began, participating leaders assembled for the traditional G7 "family photo." Prime Minister Modi stood alongside President Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron in the front row.

The gathering brought together several influential global leaders, highlighting the importance of the summit as a platform for international dialogue and cooperation.

Among those present were:

• Donald Trump

• Narendra Modi

• Emmanuel Macron

• Giorgia Meloni

• Keir Starmer

• Mark Carney

• Friedrich Merz

• Ursula von der Leyen

• Abdel Fattah el-Sisi

• Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva

Focus on Strengthening Ties

The upcoming Modi-Trump bilateral talks are expected to be closely watched by policymakers and business leaders alike. With both nations seeking to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors, the meeting could play an important role in shaping the next phase of India-US relations.

As global challenges continue to evolve, the engagement between the two leaders is likely to underline the strategic importance of collaboration between New Delhi and Washington.