Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held a joint press conference at the White House, reaffirming their commitment to a “mega partnership” between the two nations. The meeting, marked by a warm embrace between the two leaders, covered key areas of cooperation, including trade, defense, immigration, and infrastructure.
President Trump hosted Prime Minister Modi for an Official Working Visit in Washington, DC, on February 13, 2025. The leaders reaffirmed their shared values of freedom, the rule of law, human rights, and pluralism. They emphasized the strength of the India-U.S. Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, rooted in mutual trust, shared interests, and robust engagement.
Trade and Economic Cooperation
Despite the camaraderie, Trump reiterated his stance on imposing higher tariffs on US trade partners, including India, citing concerns over what he called “some of the highest trade tariffs in the world.” In response, Modi acknowledged the need to address trade imbalances and expressed India’s willingness to reduce tariffs on US goods.
A major takeaway from the meeting was India’s agreement to import more US oil and gas, a move aimed at narrowing the trade deficit between the two countries. “They need it, and we have it,” Trump remarked, highlighting the mutually beneficial nature of the deal. Modi, in turn, underscored the significance of this economic partnership, coining a phrase that resonated with both nations: “MAGA plus MIGA… a Mega partnership for prosperity.”
The leaders also launched a new initiative—the “U.S.-India COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology) for the 21st Century”—to drive transformative change across key cooperation pillars, with tangible outcomes expected this year.
Defense and Security Collaboration
The leaders reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to a dynamic defense partnership spanning multiple domains. They announced plans to sign a new ten-year Framework for the U.S.-India Major Defense Partnership in 2025.
Trump confirmed India’s planned purchase of advanced military hardware, including F-35 fighter jets. Additionally, the U.S. will expand defense sales and co-production in India to strengthen interoperability. Plans include new procurements of Javelin Anti-Tank Guided Missiles and Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicles, along with completing the acquisition of six additional P-8I Maritime Patrol aircraft.
Recognizing India’s status as a Major Defense Partner with Strategic Trade Authorization-1 (STA-1), the leaders agreed to review arms transfer regulations to streamline defense trade and technology exchange. They also announced negotiations for a Reciprocal Defense Procurement (RDP) agreement and the establishment of an Autonomous Systems Industry Alliance (ASIA) to foster co-development of AI-driven defense technology.
Immigration and H-1B Visa Concerns
The discussion also touched upon immigration policies, a contentious issue in bilateral relations. Trump acknowledged the large Indian community in the US, particularly the significant number of Indians holding H-1B visas. The visa program, which Trump had previously suspended, is now under renewed scrutiny.
Recently, the US deported 104 Indians accused of living illegally in the country, with a second deportation flight expected soon. Modi, addressing the matter, assured that India would facilitate the return of its citizens and work towards streamlining legal migration pathways.
India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)
Another key agenda item was the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), an ambitious trade initiative designed to enhance connectivity between India, Israel, Italy, and the US. Trump described IMEC as “one of the greatest trade routes in all of history,” emphasizing its potential to revolutionize global trade through an integrated network of roads, railways, and undersea cables.
Modi echoed Trump’s enthusiasm, reiterating India’s dedication to the project, which was formalized with a Memorandum of Understanding signed during the G20 Summit in 2023. This corridor is expected to enhance economic integration and strengthen India’s position as a major trade hub.
Energy Security and Technological Collaboration
Recognizing the importance of energy security, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to increasing energy trade and investments. They emphasized expanding hydrocarbon trade, enhancing strategic petroleum reserves, and facilitating greater cooperation between energy companies.
Additionally, the leaders announced the launch of the U.S.-India TRUST (Transforming the Relationship Utilizing Strategic Technology) initiative, aimed at advancing collaboration in AI, semiconductors, quantum computing, and space exploration.
Meeting with Elon Musk
On the sidelines of his visit, Modi met with Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, who also serves as the Head of the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Their discussions focused on fostering innovation and collaboration in space exploration, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development. Musk was accompanied by his family for the meeting, underscoring the personal and professional significance of the engagement.
Manbilas Singh is a talented writer and journalist who focuses on the finer details in every story and values integrity above everything. A self-proclaimed sleuth, he strives to expose the fine print behind seemingly mundane activities and aims to uncover the truth that is hidden from the general public. In his time away from work, he is a music aficionado and a nerd who revels in video & board games, books and Formula 1.
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