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Washington:
PM Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to the United States on February 13 represents an important milestone in enhancing the bilateral relationship between the two countries. This "official working visit" makes Modi the 4th foreign leader to be hosted by the White House since President Donald Trump assumed office on January 20th, 2025. Notably, it is the most early visit by an Indian Prime Minister during any recent US presidency.
Modi's trip to the Trump White House on February 12-13 occurs as Trump enters the fourth week of his 2nd term. After taking office, Trump has only met with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and Jordan’s King Abdullah. His focus has been mainly on his domestic agenda, including a controversial plan for Gaza and the imposition of trade tariffs on several nations and product categories, the area of concern for India.
Personal rapport
The personal rapport between Modi and Trump was built through multiple visits to each other’s countries, will likely play a big role in their discussions. Both the leaders share similar views on China and radical Islam as pressing threats, and their leadership styles and emphasis on economic nationalism also align. Their bond began with Modi’s visit to the Howdy Modi event in Houston in September 2019, which was followed by Trump’s visit to Ahmedabad in February 2020.
Immigration and deportation
One of the key topic that could be discussed during Modi’s visit is the humane treatment of Indian deportees. The US has already deported an initial batch of 104 Indian illegal immigrants, with another 800 set to follow very soon. India has raised concerns over the mistreatment of its citizens and is seeking assurances and hopes from the US. Currently, there are 725,000 Indian immigrants in the US, with about 20,000 of them identified for deportation. This particular visit aims to ensure that legal pathways for Indians to study, work, or travel to the US remain clear.
Trade and tariffs
Trade tariffs are another crucial point of friction in the relationship. Trump has imposed tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, labeling India as a "tariff king" and "abuser" of tariffs. He had introduced a 25% tariff on aluminum and steel imports with “no exemptions, no exceptions” for any particular country. Indian businesses are always very concerned about how these tariffs will affect domestic steel prices and their ability to compete in the US market. Ahead of Modi's visit, India has already reduced tariffs on high-end motorcycles & electric batteries, and it is hoped that the meeting will lead to further discussions on a trade deal that benefits both of the sides through lowered tariffs and improved market access.
These 2 leaders are also expected to discuss expanding defense spending and possibly announce new agreements. Indian officials have hinted us that domestic companies are negotiating increased purchases of American energy supplies, particularly liquefied natural gas. PM Modi can point to India’s recent reduction of tariffs on premium US motorcycles and the possibility of lowering duties on products like bourbon and pecans, which are largely produced in Republican states.
Relationship with China
India occupies a unique role in its relationship with the US and is neither considered a major threat nor viewed as a traditional ally. Unlike China, which is seen as a strategic competitor, or countries like the UK and Japan, which are longstanding allies, our country maintains a distinctive position.
This is reflected in the US’s relatively neutral stance toward India, avoiding from the criticisms often directed at allies who are perceived as not "pulling their weight." Moreover, some members of the Trump administration, known for their tough stance on China, have been more accommodating toward India. For eg., National Security Advisor Mike Waltz previously led the India Caucus in the House of Representatives, and Senator Marco Rubio has expressed support for bolstering US-India defense cooperation.
All in all, Modi’s visit to the US represents a significant opportunity to strengthen the 2 nations' relationship and address crucial issues in their bilateral ties. With the visit taking place early in Trump’s presidency, the primary goal is to reaffirm relations between these two countries, rather than tackle long-standing challenges in the bond.