India, Jan. 7 -- US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said he shares a "very good relationship" with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but claimed the Indian leader is unhappy with him due to high tariffs imposed on India over its continued purchase of Russian oil.

"I have a very good relationship with PM Modi, but he is not happy with me as India is paying high tariffs due to its purchase of Russian oil," Trump said while delivering remarks at the House GOP Member Retreat.

New Delhi has maintained that it will continue engaging with all partners while safeguarding its strategic and economic priorities.

"They wanted to make me happy, basically. PM Modi's a very good man. He's a good guy. He knew I was not happy. It was important to make me...