Explained: PM Modi's 'MAGA+MIGA=MEGA' equation to India-US ties
What's the story
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that like US President Donald Trump's motto, Make America Great Again (MAGA), the people of India are also moving toward development with the determination of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Addressing a joint briefing in the US, PM Modi said, "Developed India means Make India Great Again, i.e. "MIGA."
"When the United States and India work together, i.e. "MAGA" plus "MIGA", the "MEGA" Partnership for prosperity is formed," he said.
Economic goals
Trade and defense ties
The leaders have set an ambitious target to increase bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030. They plan to finalize a mutually beneficial trade agreement soon.
The discussions also covered strengthening ties in energy, defense, and technology transfer.
"We will strengthen oil and gas trade to ensure India's energy security. In the nuclear energy sector, we spoke about deepening cooperation in the direction of small modular reactors...In the coming days, new technology and equipment will increase our capacity," he said.
Defense cooperation
US to sell F-35 jets
A major highlight of defense cooperation is the US's decision to sell F-35 stealth fighter jets to India.
With this, India joins an elite club of countries flying these advanced aircraft.
Further, India also intends to purchase up to $25 billion worth of US energy, in a bid to bridge the trade deficit between the two countries.
Border dispute
Trump offers mediation in India-China border dispute
President Trump also offered to mediate in the ongoing India-China border dispute, saying he would like to see the situation de-escalate.
He said, "If I could be of help, I'd love to help, because that should be stopped."
The visit ended with the US approving the extradition of 26/11 attacks accused Tahawwur Rana, a sign of progress in bilateral cooperation on security matters.
The leaders also spoke about geopolitical concerns like free trade, immigration policies, and challenges of global terrorism.