Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh has criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's characterization of the United States and India as "natural partners," referencing former U.S. President Donald Trump's repeated claims of brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Ramesh questioned the authenticity of the partnership, stating, "Are they so natural that President Trump has declared on over 35 different occasions that he brought about the India-Pakistan ceasefire on the evening of May 10th using trade as the instrument of leverage?"

This remark follows PM Modi's recent expression of confidence in the ongoing trade negotiations with the U.S., aiming to unlock the "limitless potential" of the bilateral relationship. Modi had described the U.S. and India as "close friends and natural partners," emphasizing the importance of the trade talks in strengthening ties.

Ramesh's comments highlight ongoing concerns within the Congress party regarding the implications of Trump's assertions on India's sovereignty and diplomatic standing. The party has previously questioned the government's response to Trump's repeated claims of influencing the ceasefire through trade negotiations.

The debate underscores the complexities of international diplomacy and the scrutiny of foreign involvement in sensitive bilateral matters.