MEA denies Elon Musk's presence in Modi-Trump call, cites 'only between two leaders'

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) : The Indian government on Saturday categorically denied reports that billionaire Elon Musk was also present at the talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump. The Ministry of External Affairs clarified that the March 24 conversation was solely between PM Modi and President Trump.

This was the first time the two leaders spoke since the Israeli and US military action against Iran on February 28. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, during the conversation, the two leaders shared their views on the situation in the region and stressed the importance of maintaining peace. During the phone call, Prime Minister Modi stated that India wants peace and reduced tensions in the region. He also stated that the Strait of Hormuz should remain safe and open to all.

The conversation primarily focused on the evolving situation in West Asia. A spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs said, "We have seen the news. The telephone conversation on March 24 was solely between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump," completely rejecting claims of any third party's involvement. This clarification came after a New York Times report, citing 'unidentified' US officials, claimed that Elon Musk was part of the call between the two leaders.

The report said, "Elon Musk participated in a phone call with President Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday; it was unusual for a civilian to be on a call between two heavyweights during a wartime crisis." The report further stated that Trump and Musk had a falling out last year when the billionaire left his role in the government, where he was tasked with reducing staff numbers. However, it was unclear why Musk would have been included in such a high-level diplomatic conversation or whether he spoke during the call.