PM Modi Lends Helping Hand to Trump Onto G7 Podium; 'We Are Always Ready,' Says PM During Leaders' Photo Op

A brief but closely watched moment between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump drew attention at the 52nd G7 Summit in France on Tuesday, as the two leaders met face-to-face for the first time in 16 months.

The interaction took place during the traditional G7 family photograph session on the scenic terraces of Évian-les-Bains, where world leaders and invited partners gathered for the official group image. As the leaders assembled on the elevated podium, PM Modi was seen extending a helping hand to President Trump as he stepped onto the platform.

Prime Minister Modi later stood alongside Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron in the front row of the official G7 leaders' photograph, a moment that highlighted India's increasingly prominent role in global affairs.

Though brief, the interaction was widely interpreted as a symbolic icebreaker between the two leaders, whose ties have experienced periods of strain in recent months over trade disputes and broader geopolitical disagreements. During the photo session, Modi and Trump were positioned alongside Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

Following the photograph, the leaders dispersed for the outreach meeting. Modi and Trump exchanged a handshake and engaged in a short conversation, drawing further attention from delegates and media present at the summit.

As leaders gathered for the customary family photograph, PM Modi said, "We are always ready", when asked if everyone was ready before the photoshoot began.

"POTUS gathers with world leaders prior to the start of a cultural showcase and concert at the G7 summit in France," the post read.

Inside the India-US agenda

The interaction comes ahead of a scheduled bilateral meeting on Wednesday, expected to be one of the key engagements on the sidelines of the summit.

According to officials from India's Ministry of External Affairs and the White House, cited by ANI, the discussions are expected to focus on finalising a long-pending trade agreement, strengthening defence manufacturing cooperation, securing maritime trade routes, and expanding collaboration in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

The talks come amid heightened regional instability and concerns over disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil supplies.

The photograph, taken during the G7 Summit in Évian, France, brought together leaders of the world's major economies and invited partner countries. Modi's placement alongside summit host Macron and Trump drew particular attention as India continues to expand its influence in discussions on global economic growth, technology, trade and sustainable development.

Earlier in the day, Macron personally welcomed Modi at the summit venue, underscoring the strong strategic partnership between France and India and New Delhi's growing significance in deliberations at the gathering. The French President also shared a video of welcoming the Prime Minister to the multilateral event.