President Trump invited PM Modi to the U.S. following a phone call on January 27, focusing on immigration and defense procurement. Modi is expected to visit Washington, D.C. on February 12, with a meeting and potential dinner with Trump on February 13. The visit aims to strengthen U.S.-India trade ties and address issues related to illegal immigration and military cooperation.
On January 27, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump extended an invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the United States the following week, as communicated by a White House official. This phone conversation involved discussions centered on immigration, emphasizing India’s procurement of more American-made security equipment. Following their discussion, PM Modi expressed his congratulations to Trump, noting their commitment to a beneficial and trusted partnership aimed at global peace, prosperity, and security.
Sources indicate that PM Modi is expected to meet President Trump on February 13 in Washington, D.C., with plans for a dinner hosted by Trump. Modi is anticipated to arrive in Washington D.C. on February 12 after concluding his visit to France and will remain in the U.S. capital until February 14. During his trip, Modi will engage with American corporate leaders and the Indian community.
India and the United States are eager to bolster trade relations, with the U.S. recognized as India’s largest trading partner; the two-way trade exceeded $118 billion for the 2023/24 fiscal year. President Trump had mentioned to reporters post-call that PM Modi’s visit to the United States was likely to occur in February, aligning with Trump’s goal to reduce the trade deficit with India.
In their phone conversation, Trump raised concerns about illegal immigration and conveyed confidence that Modi would take the appropriate steps. India has assured that it will facilitate the return of Indian nationals who have illegally immigrated to the U.S., once duly identified. The anticipation surrounds potential continued cooperation in technology initiatives, alongside a greater focus on interoperability between the militaries of both nations.
The U.S. has indicated a willingness to reassess export control regulations in consideration of Indian defense acquisitions, while India hopes to evade the tariffs President Trump has previously threatened, acknowledging India’s high tariffs on American goods. This meeting marks a significant step in enhancing India-U.S. cooperation across various sectors.
The relationship between India and the United States has historically been marked by mutual strategic interests, especially in trade and defense cooperation. As India’s largest trading partner, the U.S. has expressed ongoing interest in bolstering economic ties, further driven by recent efforts to facilitate smoother immigration processes and military cooperation. These discussions come against a backdrop of both nations seeking to solidify their partnership amid global geopolitical shifts.
In summary, President Trump’s invitation to PM Modi for a visit signifies the ongoing commitment between the United States and India to enhance their bilateral relationship. The planned discussions on trade, immigration, and defense cooperation demonstrate the importance of this partnership in addressing mutual concerns and fostering economic opportunities. The anticipated meetings and engagements during Modi’s visit are set to reinforce strategic alliances and allow for further dialogue on pressing issues.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
