PM Modi meets US intel chief before talks with President Trump

New Delhi, Feb 13: The newly-appointed US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, discussing enhanced intelligence cooperation between the two nations. Their talks focused on counterterrorism, cybersecurity, emerging threats, and strategic intelligence sharing, highlighting a commitment to a stable, rules-based international order.

The meeting marked a continuation of past engagements between the two leaders, with Modi recalling his earlier discussions with Gabbard.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Washington DC for a two-day official visit, his first meeting with President Donald Trump since Trump began his second term in office. Modi's visit is seen as a key moment in shaping the future of Indo-US relations, with trade, security, and geopolitical strategy expected to dominate discussions.

In a post on X, Modi shared his enthusiasm yesterday about the visit: “Landed in Washington DC a short while ago. Looking forward to meeting @POTUS Donald Trump and building upon the India-USA Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Our nations will keep working closely for the benefit of our people and for a better future for our planet.”

Modi is the fourth world leader to visit Trump at the White House since the U.S. president’s inauguration last month. His visit comes amid pressing challenges, including trade tariffs and immigration policy, issues that have taken centre stage in Trump’s administration.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted the visit’s significance: “This has been one of our strongest international partnerships in recent years. The Prime Minister’s visit aligns with our steady engagement with the new administration following the election of President Trump in November 2024.”

Bilateral Trade and Economic Agenda

India and the US maintain robust economic ties, with bilateral trade in goods and services reaching USD 190 billion in 2023. American companies have invested over $60 billion in India, while Indian firms have contributed USD 40 billion to the US economy.

As Trump continues to push for reduced trade deficits, Modi is likely to face pressure to lower tariffs on American imports. India has already taken steps to ease trade tensions by cutting tariffs and facilitating the return of undocumented Indian immigrants. Analysts suggest Modi may leverage the visit to negotiate a broader economic partnership, potentially securing a trade deal beneficial to both nations.

India has been a Major Defence Partner of the U.S. since 2016, with New Delhi procuring over USD 20 billion in American defence equipment, including Apache helicopters, Chinook transport aircraft, and P-8I surveillance planes. Discussions on expanding the Indo-U.S. Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X) are expected to feature prominently in talks.

Modi may also extend an invitation to Trump to attend the upcoming Quad summit in India, reinforcing Indo-Pacific security cooperation.

Energy security also remains a key issue, as shifting global dynamics have impacted India’s energy trade with the US Modi is likely to discuss increasing American investments in India’s nuclear energy sector as part of India’s clean energy goals.

Technology cooperation is also set to be a major focus, particularly in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and space exploration. The Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET), launched in 2023, will be a key topic to ensure continued collaboration in these fields.

Business and Immigration Talks

Beyond political and strategic discussions, Modi is expected to meet with top business leaders, including SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk. India’s growing electric vehicle market may prompt Modi to encourage Tesla to establish a manufacturing facility in the country. Additionally, discussions may address the delayed rollout of SpaceX’s Starlink broadband services in India.

The H-1B visa programme, crucial to Indian professionals in the US, will also be on the agenda. With Trump’s history of tightening visa policies, Modi is expected to advocate for a more favourable approach to work visas for Indian tech talent.

Global Conflicts and Diplomatic Engagement

The leaders are expected to discuss pressing global conflicts, including the wars in Ukraine and Gaza. While India has maintained a neutral stance on Ukraine, Modi’s diplomatic outreach may position India as a potential mediator. Additionally, India’s ties with Israel could influence discussions on the Gaza conflict.

The meeting between Modi and Trump is scheduled for Thursday, 4:30 pm Eastern Time in Washington DC, which corresponds to 2:30 am on February 14 in India. The meeting will be followed by a joint press conference and a formal dinner.

Despite these challenges, both leaders are expected to project a positive outlook on US-India relations, reinforcing their personal rapport built over multiple interactions since 2017.

As the world watches, Modi and Trump’s discussions will shape one of the most significant global partnerships, with far-reaching implications for trade, security, and diplomacy.