Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Washington, DC, marking his first bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump since the latter’s second term began in January 2024. Modi is among the select few world leaders to visit Washington for crucial discussions, underscoring the importance of India-US relations.
Following his successful visit to France, PM Modi landed in the US capital on February 12 for a two-day visit. His meeting with Trump on February 13 is expected to focus on key global and bilateral concerns, including trade, defence, energy, and immigration.
Trade and Tariffs: A Balancing Act
One of the top priorities in the discussions will be trade and economic cooperation. The US remains India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $118 billion in 2023-2024. However, India’s trade surplus of $45.6 billion has been a point of contention for Trump, who has previously referred to India as a “tariff king.”
WATCH THE VIDEO:
#WATCH | Bengaluru | US F-35 fighter aircraft performs manoeuvres at #AeroIndia2025 – the 15th edition of Asia’s top aerospace exhibition pic.twitter.com/bVdtWJdm2t
— ANI (@ANI) February 10, 2025
The US has imposed tariffs on several countries, including China, Canada, and Mexico, while India has so far been spared. However, Trump’s recent announcement of 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports is a concern for New Delhi. Reports suggest that Modi may propose increased energy and defence imports as a strategic move to ease trade tensions.
While India has already reduced import duties on high-end motorcycles and electric batteries, Modi will likely negotiate further concessions. Talks on a long-pending India-US trade deal could also be revived after years of stalled discussions.
When our PM @narendramodi meets his American counterpart, President Trump, he must raise the 2Ts which are of immense concern for all Indians.
1️⃣Tariffs
A 25% tariff on aluminium and steel imports with “no exemptions, no exceptions” for any country, has serious repercussions… pic.twitter.com/aDSPKJFLii
— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) February 12, 2025
Defence Cooperation: Strengthening Strategic Ties
Defence is expected to be another major area of discussion. The US is keen on selling advanced military equipment to India, including F-35 fighter jets. While India has been procuring Rafale jets from France, discussions on acquiring more P-8I maritime patrol aircraft from the US are likely to resume.
Additionally, India is considering expanding its fleet of drones and military transport aircraft. However, Modi must balance these acquisitions with India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, which aims to boost domestic defence manufacturing.
Immigration and Visa Concerns
The issue of immigration, particularly the deportation of illegal immigrants, is another key topic on the agenda. The recent deportation of 104 Indians and reports that over 487 more are set to be sent back have raised concerns in India.
India is expected to seek assurances from the US regarding the humane treatment of deportees and a review of Trump’s policies impacting H-1B visa holders, which are crucial for Indian IT professionals working in the US.
Energy Cooperation: Diversification and Investment
Ahead of his US visit, Modi met with Vice President JD Vance in France, discussing ways to enhance energy cooperation. The US is likely to encourage India to reduce its reliance on Russian oil and increase imports from American suppliers.
India, in turn, may push for increased American investment in its nuclear energy sector. The Indian government is working on amending its nuclear liability laws to attract foreign investment, and discussions with the US on advanced nuclear reactors and small modular reactors are expected.
Technology, AI, and China on the Agenda
Apart from trade and energy, discussions on technology partnerships and artificial intelligence (AI) collaboration are likely to take center stage. Given the global technological race, India and the US may explore joint ventures in AI development, semiconductor manufacturing, and cybersecurity.
China is expected to be a common concern for both nations. While the US continues to counter China’s growing influence, India is also looking to strengthen its strategic positioning in the Indo-Pacific region.
Looking Ahead: Setting the Stage for the Next Four Years
PM Modi’s visit to Washington comes at a critical juncture for India-US ties. While resolving all trade and policy issues in a single visit may not be feasible, the groundwork for deeper cooperation over the next four years will be laid.
The strong personal rapport between Modi and Trump, which was a defining feature of their earlier interactions, is expected to play a key role in shaping future engagements. For now, both nations are looking forward to bolstering their partnership in trade, defence, energy, and global security.
