Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to meet former U.S. President Donald Trump later this week in Washington, marking a significant moment for bilateral relations. The two leaders, known for their warm personal rapport, are expected to discuss key strategic, trade, and technology-related matters during the visit.
Since their first meeting in 2017, Modi and Trump have maintained a close relationship, evident in joint appearances at major rallies in Houston and Ahmedabad. Their shared political outlook and a common focus on countering China have strengthened the US-India partnership.
With the U.S. trade deficit with India nearing $46 billion, Trump is expected to push for further tariff reductions. India has already taken steps in this direction, lowering some tariffs and repatriating 104 undocumented Indians in an effort to ease trade tensions. Modi may use this opportunity to propose a broader economic partnership to reduce tariffs on both sides.
Trump is likely to urge India to increase its purchases of American oil, a move complicated by India’s reliance on Russian crude following the Ukraine war. In return, Modi is expected to advocate for U.S. investments in India’s nuclear energy sector as part of the country’s ambitious goal to source 50% of its energy needs from renewables by 2030.
The leaders will also discuss strengthening technology partnerships, particularly the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET), launched during the Biden administration. Modi will seek assurances from Trump’s team, including National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, that the U.S. remains committed to integrating India into global tech supply chains.
Another critical issue will be the future of H-1B visas, which are crucial for Indian tech workers in the U.S. While the program has faced criticism from some Trump supporters, Modi is expected to push for its continuation.
With an eye on security and geopolitical stability, both leaders will likely reaffirm their commitment to countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region. Modi is also expected to meet top U.S. business executives, including Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, as India looks to expand its electric vehicle sector.
While the meeting will showcase the camaraderie between Modi and Trump, both sides will approach discussions with specific demands. India’s preemptive moves—such as reducing tariffs and repatriating undocumented migrants—suggest an effort to manage Trump’s transactional approach to diplomacy.
As Modi engages with U.S. policymakers, business leaders, and the Indian-American community, this visit will serve as a crucial moment in shaping the next phase of U.S.-India relations.