India, Sept. 6 -- The positive exchange between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump can be interpreted in many ways: India's pragmatic foreign policy approach; a reiteration of the strategic importance of the India-US relationship; a genuine diplomatic effort to de-escalate recent tensions over trade tariffs and open the way for reconciliation; and, perhaps, a recognition of India's growing economic and strategic importance-not just in the region, but globally.

On Saturday, PM Modi responded positively to Trump's overture, stating:

"Deeply appreciate and fully reciprocate President Trump's sentiments and positive assessment of our ties. India and the US have a very positive and forward-looking Comprehensive and Gl...