Washington, DC [US]: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the White House next week at the invitation of US President Donald Trump, Reuters reported, citing a White House official.
The invitation follows a recent phone call between the two leaders on January 27, during which they reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the US-India strategic partnership and advancing the Indo-Pacific Quad partnership.
During the call, Trump emphasized immigration policies, India’s procurement of American-made security equipment, and the importance of fair bilateral trade relations.
“The two leaders discussed expanding and deepening cooperation. They also discussed a range of regional issues, including security in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe,” the White House statement read.
“The President emphasized the importance of India increasing its procurement of American-made security equipment and moving toward a fair bilateral trading relationship,” it added.
Strengthening US-India Ties
The leaders also discussed plans for PM Modi’s White House visit and the Indo-Pacific Quad partnership, with India set to host the Quad Leaders’ Summit for the first time later this year.
“The leaders discussed plans for Prime Minister Modi to visit the White House, underscoring the strength of the friendship and strategic ties between our nations. Both leaders emphasized their commitment to advance the US-India strategic partnership and the Indo-Pacific Quad partnership, with India hosting Quad Leaders for the first time later this year,” the statement noted.
US-India Trade and Immigration Relations
Bilateral trade between the US and India exceeded USD 118 billion in 2023-24, with India maintaining a trade surplus of USD 32 billion, according to Reuters.
As a key strategic ally in countering China’s influence, India seeks stronger trade ties with the US and aims to simplify the visa process for skilled Indian workers.
PM Modi was among the first world leaders to congratulate Trump on his re-election, engaging in a phone conversation with him on November 6 to commend his victory and the Republican Party’s success in the Congressional elections.
The warm ties between Modi and Trump have significantly strengthened cooperation between India and the US on various global issues.
Migration and Tariff Concerns
The visit comes just hours after a US military plane deported migrants to India, marking the longest deportation flight under the Trump administration, Reuters reported.
Meanwhile, India remains focused on avoiding potential US tariffs, which Trump has previously threatened, citing India’s high tariffs on American goods.
PM Modi’s visit to the White House is expected to further cement US-India relations, addressing trade, security, and strategic regional partnerships.