Catch all the updates from PM Modi’s US visit here.
One senior official highlighted India’s “early body language” and “modest steps” towards addressing the trade deficit, which has been a key concern for the US. The talks between the two leaders — scheduled for 2.35 am IST on February 14 — are expected to provide further momentum to solidify a fair bilateral trade partnership, with a potential agreement likely in the last quarter of this year.The Prime Minister’s visit assumes significance as Trump is firing on all cylinders on the tariff front. Trump has imposed tariffs on China and threatened tariffs on Canada and Mexico before pausing them for a month while negotiations continue.
Trump on Thursday teased a new round of sweeping reciprocal tariffs, matching the higher rates other nations charge to import American goods.
However, sources told CNBC-TV18 that India does not expect Trump’s reciprocal tariffs to have a significant impact on its economy. In fact, sources told CNBC-TV18, the proposed tariffs on Canada and Mexico have opened up new opportunities for Indian exporters, especially in sectors like manufacturing and agriculture.Also read: US-India defence relations to see greater synergy and growth under Trump 2.0, says General Atomics CEO
A White House official said Trump is “proud of the close relationship with India and PM Modi”. The official added that the bilateral meeting between PM Modi and Trump will “build on the accomplishments of the first Trump administration”.
Trade remains a central theme of the discussions, with sources saying that both nations are working out a roadmap for a strong trade pact that includes sector-specific arrangements. India is expected to provide greater access to US industrial goods, while seeking reciprocal access for its labour-intensive manufacturing products.
Further, the sources said India and the US will release a joint statement strongly condemning terrorism, including the Khalistani separatist movement.
According to the White House official, Trump sees the United States as an “energy powerhouse” and wants it to become a major supplier to meet the growing demands of the Indian economy. “US aspirations to be a major energy supplier align with the needs of the Indian economy,” the official added. With India seeking to diversify its energy imports, the US sees an opportunity to deepen its role in powering India’s growth.
The senior official also reaffirmed the US commitment to strengthening multilateral alliances such as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), which includes the US, India, Japan, and Australia, and the India-Israel-United Arab Emirates-United States (I2U2) grouping. Additionally, the two nations are working to advance the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing connectivity and trade across regions.
Also read: Trump says he and Russian leader Putin have agreed to begin ‘negotiations’ on ending Ukraine war
