NEW DELHI – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the United States from February 12 to 13 for high-level talks with US President Donald Trump, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced on February 7.
The visit, following an invitation from President Trump, comes shortly after his return to the White House for a second term. It also coincides with growing criticism of Modi’s government over the treatment of 104 Indian immigrants deported from the US this week under Trump’s immigration policies.
Before arriving in Washington, Modi will visit France from February 10 to 12. His discussions with Trump are expected to focus on immigration, trade, and defense cooperation. During a phone call on January 27, Trump emphasized the importance of India purchasing more American-made security equipment and ensuring fair trade practices.
As a key strategic partner in countering China’s influence, India seeks to strengthen trade ties with the US and secure easier access to skilled worker visas. Additionally, India aims to avoid tariffs that Trump previously threatened over what he called high Indian duties on US products.
In response to potential trade tensions, India is reviewing import tariffs on over 30 items, including luxury cars, solar cells, and chemicals, potentially increasing imports from the US. The US remains India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding US$118 billion (S$160 billion) in 2023-24, and India maintaining a US$32 billion trade surplus.