Former US President Donald Trump has lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi as "a very tough cookie" and one of the world leaders he most admires, while also characterising Chinese President Xi Jinping as "all business." These remarks came during a wide-ranging interview with Axios, conducted shortly after the G7 Summit in France, where Trump had engaged in a series of high-level meetings.

Trump specifically named PM Modi and President Xi when asked which global leaders he held in highest regard. Axios reported his direct quotes, highlighting the distinct descriptors for each leader. This public praise for PM Modi builds on a series of complimentary statements Trump has made in recent weeks, underscoring a consistent personal rapport between the two leaders.

The interview followed a significant in-person interaction between Trump and Modi on the sidelines of the G7 Summit. This meeting marked their first face-to-face engagement in over 16 months, providing an opportunity for both leaders to reaffirm the close relationship between their nations. Despite recent points of friction, including trade disputes, sanctions, and geopolitical incidents, Trump emphasised the strength of the bilateral bond.

During their G7 encounter, Trump stated, "We have the best relationship. We cannot be closer than we are." He attributed this strong connection to both the nations and, notably, to the personal chemistry between himself and Modi. Trump has frequently commended PM Modi's negotiating prowess, a sentiment he reiterated at the G7 summit.

He described the Indian Prime Minister as a formidable trade negotiator, suggesting that a new trade agreement between the two countries was "very close" to being finalised. Trump's colourful analogy further illustrated his perception of Modi's leadership style: "So you look at this man. I'll give you a lesson. He's the most BEAUTIFUL-looking man. He looks so nice. He's like an angel. But actually, he's tough, he's a killer. He's as tough as they come. But he looks so good. So he gets you by surprise."

This assessment from a former US President offers a unique perspective on PM Modi's global standing and diplomatic approach. It suggests that beyond policy differences, a strong personal connection and mutual respect can play a significant role in international relations. For India, such an endorsement from a prominent American political figure can bolster its image on the world stage, particularly in the context of its strategic partnership with the United States.

The praise for PM Modi arrives at a crucial juncture as India and the United States continue their efforts to deepen bilateral ties. While relations have navigated challenges such as tariffs on Indian exports, New Delhi's continued procurement of Russian oil, and immigration-related concerns, both sides have maintained ongoing negotiations for a broader trade agreement. Trump's comments indicate that despite these policy divergences, his personal regard for Modi remains robust.

During their G7 discussion, PM Modi also brought up critical issues, including the safety of Indian seafarers operating across global maritime routes, especially in the sensitive Strait of Hormuz. He also expressed gratitude to Trump for his contributions towards restoring peace in West Asia, following a recent understanding between the US and Iran. These exchanges highlight the breadth of topics covered in their interactions, extending beyond mere pleasantries.

Trump's characterisation of Chinese President Xi Jinping as "all business" reflects a different, yet equally pragmatic, assessment of another major global leader. This phrase implies a focus on results, efficiency, and a no-nonsense approach to international dealings. It underscores Trump's tendency to evaluate leaders based on their perceived effectiveness and their ability to achieve their national objectives.

The Axios interview delved significantly into Trump's philosophy on power and global leadership, providing a window into how he views and interacts with his international counterparts. His specific remarks about Modi and Xi offer valuable insights into the dynamics of leadership on the global stage and the personal factors that can influence diplomatic relationships. As India and the US continue to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, the personal rapport between their leaders, as highlighted by Trump, could remain a significant element in their evolving partnership.