India (Commonwealth Union)_ Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the United States and his meeting with President Donald Trump in Washington DC have laid a strong foundation for an expanded and multifaceted India-US partnership. Accordingly, the discussions, which took place in the White House, spanned crucial areas including trade, defense, energy supplies, and emerging technologies. Despite concerns over tariffs, the leaders’ cordial and collaborative atmosphere highlighted a deepening relationship between the two nations. The meeting marked a significant milestone in India-US relations, encompassing a broad range of issues from defense cooperation to immigration. The key takeaways from this meeting reflect a commitment to strengthening economic ties, enhancing defense collaborations, and addressing global security concerns.
Also read: India defies BRICS currency: How Commonwealth leadership can propel its global power?
A warm welcome for PM Modi
Upon his arrival in Washington, DC, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was warmly received by President Donald Trump. The two leaders shared a friendly moment at the West Wing lobby of the White House, exchanging hugs and pleasantries. President Trump greeted PM Modi with, “We missed you a lot,” to which the Indian Prime Minister expressed his happiness in meeting the US President once again. As a gesture of goodwill, Trump presented Modi with a signed book titled ‘Our Journey Together’, which included images from landmark events such as ‘Howdy Modi’ and ‘Namaste Trump’. The book’s inscription read, “Mr. Prime Minister, you are great.”
Trade and economic relations
Trade emerged as a central topic during the bilateral meeting. PM Modi and President Trump jointly declared their ambitious target of achieving USD 500 billion in bilateral trade volume by 2030. One of the key aspects of their discussions was energy trade, with India agreeing to import more oil and gas from the United States. This move is part of India’s strategy to reduce its trade deficit with the US, which has been a long-standing concern for the American administration. In addition to oil and gas, President Trump highlighted a monumental trade route that will connect India, Israel, Italy, and the United States through a network of railways, roads, and undersea cables. This project is touted as one of the largest and most significant trade corridors in history, promising to unlock new avenues for collaboration across these nations.
Also read: Decoding Modi’s electoral setback!
The tariff issue
One of the critical issues discussed during PM Modi’s visit was the imposition of tariffs by the US. Despite the warm relations between the two leaders, President Trump reiterated his stance on a “reciprocal” tariff approach, emphasizing that the US would apply similar tariffs as other countries impose on it. Trump’s comments followed his decision to impose a 25% tariff on Indian steel and aluminum imports. This move was in line with his broader policy of ensuring a level playing field in international trade. However, both leaders acknowledged the complexities of trade relations while agreeing to work together to resolve any differences.
Extradition of Tahawwur Rana
A landmark decision during the meeting was the announcement that the US would extradite Tahawwur Rana, one of the key accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The extradition of Rana, who had been evading justice for years, was hailed as a significant victory for India. President Trump declared, “My administration has approved the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, one of the very evil people of the world, to face justice in India.” This announcement underscores the growing cooperation between India and the US in counter-terrorism efforts.
Strengthening defense ties
In a major defense development, President Trump confirmed that the US would provide India with the advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets. This deal marks a significant step forward in defense collaboration, as India becomes one of the few countries to acquire this state-of-the-art technology. The US President also noted that military sales to India would increase by billions of dollars, a move that strengthens the strategic defense partnership between the two nations. Discussions also included co-production agreements for military equipment such as the Javelin anti-tank guided missiles and Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicles, further solidifying defense ties.
Shared vision for global prosperity
PM Modi added a unique touch to the proceedings by merging the American “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) slogan with India’s own aspirations. He coined the term “MIGA” (Make India Great Again), emphasizing that when both nations work together, it forms a “MEGA” partnership for prosperity. This creative approach to international diplomacy highlights the growing bond between the two countries, grounded in mutual respect and shared goals.
The Russia-Ukraine conflict
In addition to bilateral concerns, global geopolitical matters were also discussed. Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s position on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, calling for a peaceful resolution through dialogue. The leaders deliberated on the international ramifications of the war and underscored the importance of diplomatic efforts to end the violence. On the issue of the Bangladesh crisis, President Trump dismissed speculation about US involvement, leaving the matter for PM Modi to address. He stated, “I will leave Bangladesh to PM Modi,” clarifying the US position on the situation.
Immigration and people-to-people ties
Immigration was another key issue on the agenda. PM Modi highlighted the contribution of 300,000 Indian students in the US, who annually contribute over $8 billion to the American economy. Both leaders agreed on the importance of facilitating legal mobility for students and professionals while addressing concerns about illegal immigration and human trafficking. PM Modi emphasized that India was ready to take back its citizens living illegally in the US, provided they are verified, and stressed the need for joint efforts to combat human trafficking.
Collaboration on emerging technologies
In a major step towards future-focused collaboration, PM Modi and President Trump announced the launch of the “TRUST” initiative. This initiative aims to foster greater collaboration among governments, academia, and the private sector in key sectors such as defense, artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, energy, and space. By promoting innovation, this initiative could significantly contribute to the advancement of emerging technologies in both countries.
Addressing the Indo-China border issue
President Trump also acknowledged the ongoing tensions between India and China, expressing a willingness to mediate if required. The US President referred to the clash between India and China as “quite vicious” and reiterated his desire to assist in resolving the conflict, if the Indian government sought American intervention.
Civil nuclear cooperation
The US and India reaffirmed their commitment to the US-India Energy Security Partnership, which encompasses cooperation in nuclear energy, oil, and gas. The focus is on implementing the US-India 123 Civil Nuclear Agreement, which includes the construction of US-designed nuclear reactors in India, alongside the development of advanced small modular reactors.
Space exploration collaboration
The leaders also explored further cooperation in space exploration. With the goal of sending India’s first astronaut to the International Space Station (ISS) by 2025, the two nations agreed to collaborate on the joint NISAR mission, which will map Earth’s surface using advanced radar technology. They also discussed expanding cooperation in space tourism, satellite systems, and space manufacturing.
Energy security and global role
In terms of energy security, the US expressed its support for India’s membership in the International Energy Agency (IEA), marking a significant step towards India’s greater participation in global energy discussions. This move is expected to strengthen India’s energy security and its role in the global energy market.
The Quad and multilateral cooperation
Prime Minister Modi invited President Trump to the upcoming Quad Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi, where India, the US, Japan, and Australia will continue to focus on shared initiatives, including disaster response and maritime security. The leaders also discussed broader multilateral initiatives such as the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) and the I2U2 Group, both aimed at improving collaboration in trade, defense, and energy.
Agreement on IMEC
Trump announced that India and the US would collaborate on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), calling it one of the greatest trade routes. The corridor will connect Israel, Italy, and extend to the US.
Bangladesh crisis
Donald Trump rejected claims of US “deep state” involvement in the Bangladesh crisis that led to the fall of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government last year. He stated that he would leave the issue to Indian Prime Minister Modi.
Great negotiator
Following the meeting, Trump praised Prime Minister Modi’s negotiating skills, saying he was a tougher and better negotiator than himself. He also described Modi as a “great friend for a long time.”
High-level meetings with key figures
During his visit, PM Modi met with various key figures, including Elon Musk, Tulsi Gabbard, Vivek Ramaswamy, Michael Waltz, and J.D. Vance. These meetings focused on enhancing cooperation in technology, defense, intelligence, and innovation, with an emphasis on sectors such as AI, space exploration, and cybersecurity.
Meeting with Elon Musk
During his two-day visit to the US, Prime Minister Modi met Tesla CEO Elon Musk hours before his talks with President Trump. Musk, accompanied by his three children and Neuralink director Shivon Zilis, met Modi at Blair House. The discussion focused on space, technology, innovation, and strengthening collaboration between India and the US in areas like AI, sustainable development, entrepreneurship, and governance. Modi described the meeting as “very good.”
Meeting with Tulsi Gabbard
During his visit to Washington, Prime Minister Modi met Tulsi Gabbard, the newly appointed US Director of National Intelligence. They discussed enhancing intelligence cooperation between India and the US, focusing on counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, and emerging threats.
Meeting with Vivek Ramaswamy
Prime Minister Modi had a great meeting with India-origin entrepreneur and Republican leader Vivek Ramaswamy at Blair House. They discussed strengthening India-US ties, innovation, and biotechnology. Ramaswamy expressed it was a “pleasure and honor” to welcome the PM to the US.
Meeting with Michael Waltz
Prime Minister Modi had a fruitful meeting with US National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, discussing key areas of defense, technology, and security in India-US relations. The meeting, also attended by India’s NSA Ajit Doval, highlighted the strong potential for cooperation in sectors like AI, semiconductors, and space.
Meeting with US Vice President J.D. Vance
While in France, Prime Minister Modi met US Vice President J.D. Vance, his Indian-origin wife Usha, and their two young sons. This marked Modi’s first interaction with the new leadership of the Trump administration.
Conclusion of the visit
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the US concluded with a successful series of meetings that have significantly advanced the India-US strategic partnership. Addressing the media after the bilateral talks, PM Modi hailed the discussions as pivotal for the future of both nations. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi expressed optimism, stating, “Our talks will add significant momentum to the India-USA friendship.” This visit has not only reinforced India’s position as a key global partner but also set the stage for enhanced collaboration in several critical sectors. The strategic, economic, and diplomatic initiatives discussed during this trip are likely to shape the future trajectory of India-US relations for years to come.
