Trump, Modi to Meet Amid Trade and Strategic Discussions

U.S. President Donald Trump is set to meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, as the Indian leader seeks to strengthen ties with Washington while navigating trade tensions and geopolitical challenges.

Modi, a nationalist leader, has long emphasized his warm relationship with Trump, backing his return to the White House. The Indian prime minister aims to bolster relations with the U.S. and the West, particularly as India faces criticism for its neutral stance on Russia’s war in Ukraine.

His visit follows a major electoral victory for his ruling Hindu nationalist party in India’s federal territory, including New Delhi. Ahead of the trip, Modi described the meeting as an opportunity to “deepen our partnership” in key sectors such as technology, trade, defense, and energy.

Trade and Tariffs on the Agenda

While Modi’s visit signals stronger ties, trade tensions remain a critical issue. Trump has already imposed tariffs on China and the European Union and has expanded levies on steel and aluminum. India has not been spared from Trump’s tariff rhetoric—he has frequently referred to the country as the “tariff king”.

In response, New Delhi has taken steps to appease Washington, including increasing oil imports from the U.S. and lowering tariffs on some American products, such as Harley-Davidson motorcycles. India also removed retaliatory tariffs on U.S. agricultural products like almonds, apples, lentils, chickpeas, and walnuts in 2023.

Despite these adjustments, the U.S.-India trade deficit remains significant, with India enjoying a $50 billion surplus. In 2023, Indo-U.S. trade totaled $190.1 billion, with U.S. exports to India valued at $70 billion and imports at $120 billion.

Defense and Strategic Cooperation

A major defense collaboration is also expected to be on the table. The two nations recently agreed to a joint venture between U.S.-based General Electric and India’s Hindustan Aeronautics to manufacture jet engines in India. Additionally, India has signed a deal to purchase MQ-9B SeaGuardian armed drones from the U.S.

Beyond trade and defense, immigration is likely to be discussed. Modi can highlight India’s recent acceptance of 104 deported migrants from the U.S., marking the first such return flight under Trump’s immigration crackdown.

The China Factor

For Trump’s administration, India remains central to U.S. efforts to counter China in the Indo-Pacific. As part of this strategy, India is set to host a Quad summit later this year, bringing together leaders from the U.S., India, Japan, and Australia to reinforce regional security and economic cooperation.

While Modi’s visit underscores growing Indo-U.S. cooperation, negotiations on tariffs, defense agreements, and geopolitical strategy will determine how far this partnership advances in the coming months.