The White House on Monday reaffirmed the strength of India-US ties, describing India as a "very strategic ally" and hinting that a much-anticipated trade deal between the two nations could be finalised soon.During a press briefing, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt responded to questions from reporters about the status of trade negotiations and US President Donald Trump's recent comments indicating that a deal with India was near completion."Yes, the President said that last week, and it remains true. I just spoke to our Secretary of Commerce about it. He was in the Oval Office with the President. They are finalising these agreements, and you'll hear from the President and his trade team very soon when it comes to India," Leavitt said.Leavitt also responded to a question from news agency ANI about how President Trump views China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region and its impact on ties with India. “India remains a very strategic ally in the Asia Pacific and the President has a very good relationship with Prime Minister Modi , and he will continue to have that,” she said.Her comments come amid renewed focus on Indo-Pacific partnerships, as the US continues to counter China’s economic and military assertiveness in the region.While she did not offer a specific timeline for the trade deal, Leavitt’s remarks suggest that behind-the-scenes preparations are in the final stages.