Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump met and exchanged a handshake on Monday during the G7 summit in Evian, France [1].
This encounter marks the first face-to-face meeting between the two leaders in 16 months [1]. The interaction occurs as both nations navigate complex trade negotiations and regional tensions, signaling the continued importance of the India-U.S. strategic partnership [5].
The meeting took place on June 16, 2026 [2], as part of the broader G7 summit scheduled for June 16-17 [3]. While the two leaders exchanged pleasantries and a handshake, observers noted the absence of a hug, a gesture that has characterized previous high-profile meetings between the two men [1, 2].
The two leaders last met in person in February 2025 [1]. The current engagement in France serves as a backdrop for bilateral discussions aimed at strengthening ties amid a shifting global geopolitical landscape [5].
Both leaders are attending the summit in Evian to discuss international cooperation and economic stability. The handshake between Modi and Trump occurred ahead of more formal bilateral sessions designed to address specific trade and security concerns [1, 2].
“The Indian Prime Minister and US President shared a handshake in Evian”
The shift from a traditional hug to a formal handshake may reflect a transition toward a more business-like diplomatic tone. Given the 16-month gap since their last meeting, the encounter emphasizes the necessity of stabilizing the India-US relationship to counter regional instability and resolve lingering trade disputes.
