US-India Strategic Ties in Focus as Leaders Plan to Deepen Bilateral Cooperation
Washington, DC [US], February 4: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the White House next week following an invitation from US President Donald Trump, Reuters reported, citing a White House official.
The invitation comes just days after the two leaders spoke over the phone on January 27, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening the US-India strategic partnership and the Indo-Pacific Quad alliance.
Key Areas of Discussion: Security, Trade, and Indo-Pacific Strategy
During their call, President Trump emphasized India’s role in regional security, urged India to increase procurement of US-made defense equipment, and underscored the importance of a fair bilateral trading relationship.
“The two leaders discussed expanding and deepening cooperation. They also addressed a range of regional issues, including security in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe,” read the White House statement.
Trump has long pushed for India to purchase more American military hardware, positioning it as a key element of the bilateral relationship. Modi’s visit is expected to further these discussions, especially in countering China’s influence in the region.
The two leaders also discussed India’s role in hosting the Quad Leaders’ Summit later this year, reinforcing the growing Indo-Pacific alliance between India, the US, Japan, and Australia.
Strengthening Economic and Trade Relations
India and the US share a robust trade relationship, with bilateral trade surpassing USD 118 billion in 2023-24. However, India has faced pressure from Trump over high tariffs on American goods, with the US President previously threatening trade restrictions.
With PM Modi’s visit, India is expected to push for greater trade access and easier visa policies for skilled Indian workers in the US.
PM Modi’s Congratulatory Message and Warm Ties with Trump
PM Modi was among the first world leaders to congratulate Trump on his re-election, also extending best wishes to the Republican Party’s Congressional success.
The Modi-Trump relationship has been marked by close cooperation on global issues, with past events like the ‘Howdy Modi’ rally in Houston and the ‘Namaste Trump’ event in India showcasing their strong diplomatic camaraderie.
US Deportation of Indian Migrants Ahead of Visit
The visit also follows reports that a US military aircraft recently deported migrants to India, marking the farthest destination for such flights under Trump’s administration. This move comes as the US tightens its immigration policies, which could be a topic of discussion during Modi’s visit.
India is also eager to avoid US-imposed tariffs, a recurring concern that has surfaced in past negotiations. Trump has frequently criticized India’s tariff structure, citing it as an obstacle to fair trade practices.
As the visit approaches, global attention will be on how US-India relations evolve under Trump’s second term, with key agreements expected on trade, defense, and geopolitical strategy.
