New Delhi: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit the United States next week at the invitation of US President Donald Trump, according to a White House official quoted by Reuters. The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, did not disclose further details regarding the visit.
PM Modi and Trump had a telephonic conversation on January 27, during which the former US president emphasised immigration concerns and encouraged India to purchase more American-made security equipment.
Key Highlights of PM Modi's Expected Visit
According to a Hindustan Times report, PM Modi is likely to meet Trump on February 13 in Washington, DC, with the US president expected to host a formal dinner in his honour. Modi is scheduled to arrive in the US capital on February 12, following his visit to France, and will stay until February 14.
PM Modi to Visit US, Meet Trump
During his stay, the Indian Prime Minister is expected to hold discussions with American corporate leaders and members of the Indian diaspora. Both India and the US are eager to strengthen trade ties and streamline visa regulations, especially as bilateral trade between the two nations exceeded $118 billion in 2023-24.
Trump, who has often described Modi as a friend, had earlier hinted that the Indian PM’s visit was being planned for February. The president has been focused on addressing the US trade deficit with India, and New Delhi has responded positively by lowering customs duties on several key imports in its recent budget, which could benefit American businesses.
Strategic and Economic Discussions on the Agenda
Beyond trade, the two leaders are expected to deliberate on strategic partnerships and defence cooperation. The US has shown interest in enhancing military interoperability with India and is open to reviewing export control regulations, provided they align with Indian defence procurement needs.
Trump also raised the issue of illegal immigration during his call with Modi, expressing confidence that India would take appropriate steps. New Delhi has already committed to repatriating Indian nationals found to have entered the US illegally once they are officially identified.
Additionally, both nations are likely to reaffirm their collaboration on advanced technology, either under the existing framework of the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) or through a restructured version of the initiative.
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New Delhi, for its part, is keen to avoid potential tariff hikes from Trump, who has previously criticised India for imposing high tariffs on American products.
With trade, defence, and technology cooperation high on the agenda, Modi’s visit is expected to further solidify India-US relations in the coming years.
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