US President Donald Trump said the United States would come to India's aid if it were attacked, despite the absence of a formal mutual defence agreement between the two countries.
Responding to a question from NDTV on defence ties during a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Trump described the relationship between Washington and New Delhi as strong.
"I think it's a great relationship. I can tell you this: without even having a contract, we don't have a formal contract; you have to have the right contract. But if they were attacked, we would be there to help," Trump said.
In a lighter moment, Trump linked his remarks to Modi's leadership, saying the United States would support India if an attack occurred while Modi remained in office.
"Now, if there is a new leader, I am not sure about it. But if they are attacked and he is the leader, we are going to be there to help," he said.
Separately, Modi spoke of a "new momentum" in India-US relations following his last meeting with Trump in Washington.
"The last time we met was in Washington. After that, there has been a new momentum in our relations. There has been a new energy. And, in many ways, we are moving forward together," Modi said.
He added that both sides were working to achieve shared goals and that progress was being made rapidly.
The meeting in Evian was the first in-person interaction between the two leaders since their summit meeting in February. It took place as India and the United States continue discussions on a possible trade agreement and as diplomatic efforts continue to address the crisis in West Asia.
Modi also praised Trump for the progress made in efforts aimed at restoring peace in West Asia.