Modi to meet Trump's full cabinet, discuss tariff, defense deals
What's the story
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will go on his first official visit to the United States since President Donald Trump was sworn in for a second term.
The two-day visit, from February 12-13, highlights the importance of India-US ties.
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the early visit in Trump's term "shows the importance of the India-US partnership and is also reflective of the bipartisan support this partnership enjoys in the US."
Key discussions
Modi's visit to focus on trade, defense cooperation
Before his US trip, PM Modi will co-chair the AI Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron from February 10-12.
The Washington agenda includes talks on trade, defense cooperation, and global security challenges.
PM Modi is reportedly preparing a package that could pave the way for a "mini trade deal" with the US, possibly including tariff concessions on products such as electronic equipment and chemicals.
Trade strategy
India's tariff reduction strategy and defense cooperation
India's recent budget proposal indicates a move toward slashing tariffs on several goods, including luxury cars and solar cells.
This is viewed as PM Modi's attempt to avoid a trade conflict like the US-China dispute.
Defense cooperation will also be a major focus during his visit, with possible talks on India buying General Electric's GE-414 engines for fighter planes and Stryker combat vehicles.
High-profile meetings
Modi to meet senior US officials and business leaders
During his visit, PM Modi is likely to meet senior US officials and top business leaders. A meeting with Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), is also on the cards.
The prime minister and President Trump will discuss geopolitical matters including conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine, and the political situation in Bangladesh after recent unrest.
Trade partnership
US-India trade relations and strategic ties
The US is India's largest trading partner coming closely after China, with two-way trade exceeding $118 billion in 2023-24. Economic cooperation continues to be a core focus for both nations.
"The Prime Minister's visit to the United States will provide further direction and momentum to this important partnership. We expect a joint statement to be adopted at the end of the visit, which will be shared in due course,"