New Delhi, 14 February: Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a “substantive and productive” visit to the United States on Thursday at the invitation of President Donald Trump, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs stated. The visit focused on trade, energy, defense, immigration, and counterterrorism.
Modi became the fourth foreign leader to visit Trump since his return to the White House. He also met with the Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, DOGE chief Elon Musk, and Vivek Ramaswamy. His discussions with Trump lasted nearly four hours, addressing several key issues.
US-India Trade
Trump expressed confidence in securing “wonderful trade deals” with India, a notable remark given his administration’s focus on “reciprocal tariffs.”
He announced that both sides had agreed to begin negotiations to resolve “long-running disparities” in trade. “We’ll begin negotiations to address the long-running disparities that should have been taken care of over the last four years,” Trump said.
PM Modi emphasized the importance of economic ties, stating, “In order to ensure India’s energy security, we will focus on trade in oil and gas. Investment in energy infrastructure will also increase in the area of nuclear energy.” He noted that the trade agreement should be finalized “very soon.”
Oil and Gas Deal
A major outcome of the meeting was India’s decision to increase oil and gas imports from the US to reduce the trade deficit.
“They’re going to be purchasing a lot of our oil and gas. They need it. And we have it,” Trump said at a joint news briefing.
Modi reiterated the importance of energy security, stating, “In order to ensure India’s energy security, we will focus on trade in oil and gas,” while also pledging greater investment in nuclear energy.
F-35 Stealth Jets for India
Trump announced an increase in US military sales to India by “many billions of dollars.” He also confirmed that India would receive F-35 stealth fighter jets, making it part of an elite group of nations with advanced stealth technology.
“Starting this year, we’ll be increasing military sales to India by many billions of dollars. We’re also paving the way to ultimately provide India with the F-35 stealth fighters,” Trump said. The deal is expected to enhance India’s defense capabilities.
Deportation of Illegal Immigrants
The leaders also discussed immigration, particularly concerning undocumented Indian immigrants in the US. Since Trump’s return to power, the US has intensified deportation efforts.
Modi assured cooperation, stating, “Any verified Indian who is in the US illegally, we are fully prepared to take them back to India,” while also highlighting concerns about human trafficking.
Extradition of 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana
A significant announcement was made regarding the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, wanted in India for his alleged involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.
“I am pleased to announce that my administration has approved the extradition of one of the plotters (Tahawwur Rana) and one of the very evil people of the world, having to do with the horrific 2008 Mumbai terrorist attack, to face justice in India. He is going back to India to face justice,” Trump said. (With inputs from agencies)