By PM Modi and Donald trump two leaders are expected to prioritize discussions on lowering import tariffs and addressing long-standing trade disagreements, according to a source familiar with the agenda. With the US being India’s largest trading partner and bilateral trade reaching $118 billion in 2023-24, economic collaboration remains a key focus.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Washington, DC, and is staying at the Blair House. His schedule for Thursday, February 13, 2025, begins with a series of bilateral meetings, though the details of these discussions have not yet been disclosed.
Later in the day, PM Modi will meet President Donald Trump at the White House for talks, including delegation-level discussions expected to cover a broad range of topics.
Trade, Tariffs, and Energy
As previously reported by FinancialExpress.com, trade and tariff-related issues are likely to be central to the discussions between PM Modi and President Trump. The leaders aim to reduce import tariffs and settle ongoing trade disputes. Given that the US is India’s top trading partner, with bilateral trade valued at $118 billion in 2023-24, strengthening economic ties remains a priority.
Additionally, PM Modi is expected to bring up concerns regarding the H-1B visa program, which plays a crucial role for Indian IT professionals working in the US. “India continues to be the largest beneficiary of H-1B visas, and PM Modi is likely to push for its expansion,” the source noted. Furthermore, India’s recent move to lower tariffs on high-end motorcycles and electric batteries could contribute to easing trade tensions.
Defense Cooperation
According to a recent report by FinancialExpress.com, a major highlight of the discussions between PM Modi and President Trump will be enhancing defense collaboration and strategic partnerships.
During Trump’s first term (2017-2021), India and the US made significant strides in defense relations, focusing on shared geopolitical interests and deepening military engagement.
India is currently in the process of acquiring 31 US-made drones valued at $4 billion and is also exploring the potential purchase of F-35 fighter jets. Additionally, pending military deals, such as the procurement of Apache helicopters for the Indian Army and the long-awaited GE engines for India’s Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, are expected to be key discussion points.
The leaders are likely to deliberate on joint military exercises, technology-sharing agreements, and equipping the Indian armed forces with advanced US defense systems. With Aero India 2025 underway, global defense companies are closely monitoring today’s talks between Modi and Trump, particularly to see whether India will opt for Lockheed Martin’s F-21 or move forward with the F-35 for the Indian Air Force.
India and the US have already made substantial progress in defense cooperation through agreements such as the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), signed in 2018. COMCASA plays a critical role in facilitating the secure transfer of sensitive communication technology, enhancing interoperability between the two nations’ armed forces, and strengthening strategic military ties.
India-Russia Relations and Energy Security
During the White House discussions, PM Modi and President Trump are expected to address India’s energy security and its strategic relationship with Russia. With India’s increasing energy demands, securing stable energy supplies remains a priority, and discussions may cover potential collaborations in this sector.
China and Regional Security
A key focus of the talks will be regional security, particularly concerning China’s growing influence in South Asia. Both India and the US are committed to countering China’s expanding presence in the region and advancing the Quad agenda, which includes India, the US, Japan, and Australia.
China’s increasing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, as well as its military activities in the South China Sea, is likely to feature in the discussions. Looking ahead, the Quad Leaders’ Summit is scheduled to be held in New Delhi later this year, with President Trump expected to visit India for the event.
Immigration and Deportation: A Sensitive Issue
The timing of PM Modi’s visit is politically significant, as the recent deportation of 104 Indian immigrants from the US has sparked controversy in India. Images of deportees in shackles aboard a military aircraft led to a public outcry. While India has expressed its willingness to accept the return of its citizens, it has criticized the manner in which the deportations have been handled.
With another 487 Indian immigrants expected to be deported soon, this issue is likely to be raised during PM Modi’s discussions with President Trump, as India seeks a more humane and coordinated approach to deportation procedures.
Global Strategic Partnership
On the global stage, PM Modi has consistently emphasized the significance of a strong strategic partnership between India and the US.
This statement underscores the increasing importance of India-US relations, particularly in the face of global security and economic challenges.
A Stronger India-US Partnership
The invitation for PM Modi’s visit so soon after the new US administration took office highlights the growing significance of the India-US relationship. A joint statement is expected from the two leaders, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening their strategic partnership across multiple domains, including trade, defense, energy, and security.
