Goa, May 25 -- US President Donald Trump made a surprise live phone appearance during a high-profile event in Delhi attended by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where he praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and highlighted the growing closeness between India and the United States.

The event marked the 250th anniversary celebrations of the US Declaration of Independence and featured top American and Indian officials. Speaking through a live phone call played on giant screens at the venue, Trump called PM Modi a "great friend" and said he was a "big fan" of the Indian leader.

"We have never been closer to India. India can count on me 100 per cent and our country," Trump said. "Anything India wants, they get," he added, while also praisi...