Modi to Meet Trump Next Week: Key Bilateral Discussions Ahead

Modi's visit, aimed at enhancing trade relations and addressing immigration issues, follows warm ties established during Trump's first term.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the United States next week for a highly anticipated meeting with President Donald Trump, as confirmed by the White House. The trip, encompassing two days, will include a dinner hosted by the president, though specific dates have yet to be disclosed.

This visit will mark one of the earliest meetings between Trump and a foreign leader during his second presidential term. Notably, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is currently in Washington, with Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba also scheduled to visit soon.

Modi and Trump enjoyed a productive rapport during Trump's first term, underscored by a recent phone call where they discussed key issues such as illegal immigration, trade relations, and security concerns. Analysts are eager to observe whether this personal connection can address the persistent challenges that have emerged, particularly around trade tariffs and immigration.

Last year, Trump lauded Modi as a "great leader," but also chastised India for imposing high tariffs, calling it a "tariff king." This reminder comes in light of a recent US military flight that deported approximately 100 Indian nationals back to Punjab, who had reportedly crossed into the US illegally or overstayed their visas.

During last week's conversation, Trump expressed confidence that India "will do the right thing" regarding immigration policies, aligning with his administration's stringent stance on undocumented foreign nationals. A report has indicated that around 18,000 undocumented Indian migrants have been identified in the US, with estimates suggesting the actual number is significantly higher. According to the Pew Research Center, there were about 725,000 undocumented Indian immigrants in the US last year.

Despite the looming tariff threats, India has so far managed to avoid being targeted, though Trump has previously warned of reciprocal measures if tariffs on US goods aren’t reduced. Recent steps taken by India, including cuts on duties for a selection of products like Harley Davidson motorcycles, signify an effort to showcase its commitment to fostering better trade relations.

In the lead-up to Modi's visit, India's foreign ministry has reiterated the commitment to deepening bilateral relations with the US. India's Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar had already represented the country at Trump's inauguration and engaged in discussions with US officials. Following Trump's electoral victory, Jaishankar conveyed that India is optimistic about collaboration with the US under the current administration.