PM Modi Set to Visit President Trump, Likely to discuss Trade Issues
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received an official invitation from U.S. President Donald Trump to visit Washington, D.C., next week. According to a White House official, the invitation was made through a phone conversation between Trump and Modi on January 27, during which they discussed key issues, including immigration and India’s potential purchase of American-made security equipment.
Following their conversation, Prime Minister Modi took to social media platform X to express his congratulations to President Trump on securing a second term. Modi referred to Trump as a “dear friend” and reaffirmed India’s commitment to a “mutually beneficial and trusted partnership.” He emphasized that both nations would work together toward global peace, prosperity, and security.
According to sources, Prime Minister Modi is expected to arrive in Washington, D.C., on February 12 after concluding a visit to France. His visit will extend until February 14. A meeting with President Trump is likely to take place on February 13, and reports indicate that the U.S. President may host a formal dinner in honor of the Indian leader.
Modi is also expected to strengthen economic relations and fostering business collaborations is likely to be central to these discussions.
Trade Relations and Economic Cooperation
The United States remains India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade surpassing $118 billion in the 2023/24 fiscal year. However, the trade balance continues to favor India, with a trade surplus of approximately $32 billion. President Trump has consistently expressed the need to address this trade deficit and has urged India to increase its purchases of U.S.-manufactured goods, including defense equipment.
In response to these concerns, India is set to engage in discussions over trade issues. This is reflected in its recent budgetary decisions, which included reductions in customs duties on key items, a move expected to benefit U.S. companies and enhance trade relations.
Strategic and Defense Collaboration
On the strategic front, both nations are expected to strengthen their commitment to technological cooperation, particularly in critical and emerging technologies. The United States has expressed a keen interest in improving military interoperability between the two nations and has indicated a willingness to review export control regulations, provided they align with Indian defense acquisitions.
Furthermore, New Delhi is eager to avoid potential tariffs that President Trump has previously threatened, citing India’s high import duties on U.S. products. The two leaders are likely to engage in discussions aimed at finding a balanced approach to trade policies that benefit both economies.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit to Washington, D.C., highlights the strengthening partnership between India and the United States. With discussions expected to cover trade, defense, immigration, and technology collaboration, the visit could pave the way for deeper cooperation in multiple sectors. As both nations look to build on their strategic ties, Modi’s engagements in the U.S. are anticipated to reinforce a long-standing alliance focused on economic growth, security, and global stability.
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