Prime Minister Narendra Modi met US President, Mr. Donald Trump. The two leaders deliberated on a wide range of bilateral and international issues. Makng a brief address to the media, Prime Minister Modi thanked President Trump and the First Lady for the warm welcome.
“President Donald Trump has welcomed me with immense warmth. I thank him for the welcome”, the Prime Minister said.
This meeting marks the first bilateral discussion between the two leaders since Trump began his second term in office. Modi’s visit makes him one of the first global leaders to visit the US and meet with Trump after his electoral victory.
During the meeting, Modi and Trump were expected to discuss a range of bilateral and international issues, with a focus on trade, tariffs, and immigration. Both leaders are looking to strengthen ties between the two nations.
Key points from the meeting and related events:
Welcome and Initial Remarks: Before their formal talks, Modi and Trump exchanged hugs and addressed the international press. Modi acknowledged Trump’s “America first” approach, noting a similar focus in his own policies. Trump praised Modi’s leadership and their shared friendship.
Trade and Tariffs: Shortly before the meeting, Trump announced reciprocal tariffs on all nations, mentioning India as a country with high tariffs. Modi’s priority was to negotiate and avoid punitive trade actions from the U.S.
Strategic Partnership: Trump and Modi discussed expanding cooperation, including security in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe. Trump emphasized the importance of India increasing its procurement of American-made security equipment and moving toward fair bilateral trade. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to the Indo-Pacific Quad partnership, with India set to host Quad Leaders for the first time later this year.
Other Potential Discussion Points:
H-1B Visa Program: Modi may advocate for the continuation of the H-1B visa program, which allows skilled foreign workers, many of whom are Indian tech professionals, to work in the U.S..
Collaboration with Iran: Discussions may arise regarding India’s collaboration with Iran on developing a port in Chabahar, considering Trump’s “maximum pressure” campaign against Tehran.
Meeting with Elen Musk: Prime Minister and Mr. Musk discussed strengthening collaboration between Indian and US entities in innovation, space exploration, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development. Their discussion also touched on opportunities to deepen cooperation in emerging technologies, entrepreneurship and good governance.
Mr. Musk was accompanied by family members for the meeting.
This is PM Modi’s 10th visit to the United States as prime minister and fourth with Trump as President.
(Inputs from Agencies & Image Courtesy: @narendramodi/X)
