New Delhi, May 24 -- US President Donald Trump on Sunday expressed strong admiration for India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a live interaction at the 250th US Independence Day celebration held at the US Embassy in the national capital, calling the Indian leader a "friend" and reaffirming close bilateral ties.

US Ambassador Sergio Gor, along with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, was present at the commemorative event, where Trump addressed attendees virtually.

Speaking during the interaction, Trump said, "I love India. You (Ambassador Gor) have to make a good speech as a representative of our country. I just want to say hello to everybody. I love the Prime Minister. PM Modi is great; he is my friend."

He further added that ...