Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday, U.S. local time, to discuss key bilateral issues, strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. According to AFP reports, Trump has proposed selling fighter jets to India, while Modi expressed optimism about a mutually beneficial trade deal in the near future. This meeting signifies an important step in the Indo-U.S. relationship, particularly in defense, trade, and energy sectors.
During a joint press conference following their meeting, Trump stated, “Earlier this year, we expanded our military equipment sales to India by millions of dollars. We are now progressing toward selling F-35 fighter jets to India.” The F-35, a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, represents one of the most advanced aircraft in the world, offering enhanced capabilities in combat and surveillance.
This move would place India among an elite club of nations, including NATO allies like Israel and Japan, that are permitted to purchase the advanced F-35 aircraft. The inclusion of India in this prestigious group highlights the growing defense ties between Washington and New Delhi. The sale of these jets is expected to significantly boost India’s aerial combat capabilities while also reinforcing its status as a key regional power in South Asia.
In response, Modi reiterated his commitment to strengthening economic ties between the two nations. “A profitable trade agreement based on mutual understanding between our two countries will be finalized soon,” Modi stated.
The Indian Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of oil and gas trade, signaling a shift towards energy security and diversification of fuel sources for India. He suggested that reducing tariffs, forming new business agreements, and cooperating with China could help mitigate trade tensions. The United States has become one of India’s key energy suppliers, particularly in crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Since 2017, U.S. crude oil exports to India have risen sharply, positioning India as a top buyer of American energy resources.
Trump welcomed Modi at the White House, just days after unveiling a roadmap for imposing tariffs on imported goods from all countries. While Trump and Modi shared a warm relationship during Trump’s first term, the U.S. President had previously criticized India’s trade practices, calling it a “major abuser” in commerce. Additionally, tariffs imposed on steel and aluminum had affected India significantly, leading to retaliatory measures from the Indian government.
During their Oval Office meeting, Trump highlighted India’s increasing energy purchases from the U.S. “India is set to buy a significant amount of our oil and gas. We are also working on a fantastic trade deal between our nations,” he said. This deal is expected to cover multiple sectors, including manufacturing, services, and technology, reducing trade imbalances and fostering economic growth in both countries.
According to unnamed Indian government officials, Modi’s delegation had deliberated on possible commitments before the meeting with Trump. These included increased purchases of liquefied natural gas (LNG), military vehicles, and jet engines.
Seated beside Trump in the White House, Modi acknowledged his admiration for Trump’s leadership style. “One key lesson I have learned and deeply appreciate from President Trump is his unwavering commitment to national interests. Like him, I prioritize my country’s national interests above all,” Modi said. This alignment in nationalist policies has been a cornerstone of both leaders’ political ideologies, further strengthening their rapport.
Indian officials expect the meeting to pave the way for agreements related to U.S. agricultural exports, nuclear energy investments, and reductions in tariffs on key sectors, including electrical equipment, medical and surgical tools, and chemicals. The U.S. is also looking to expand its market for agricultural products in India, seeking reduced tariffs on dairy, poultry, and other farm goods, which have traditionally faced high import duties in India.
An anonymous source noted that these developments could be seen as a gift from Modi to Trump, as India’s increased purchases of U.S. goods would help reduce America’s trade deficit, a key concern for the Trump administration.
Bilateral trade negotiations between U.S. and Indian officials are ongoing. A senior member of the Trump administration confirmed that they anticipate finalizing a deal this year. “We are set to announce a major trade deal very soon,” Trump stated, reinforcing his commitment to improving economic ties with India.
Trump’s aides also revealed that the U.S. President aims to reduce the trade deficit with India through increased defense and energy exports. This strategy aligns with Trump’s broader economic policy of balancing trade deficits with major global partners, and India is viewed as a significant market for American defense and energy products.
Additionally, Trump sought India’s cooperation in tackling illegal immigration. The U.S. hosts a large Indian immigrant population, with many working in the technology sector under work visas, while some enter the country illegally. Trump’s administration has been working on stricter immigration policies, including revisions to the H-1B visa program, which is crucial for Indian IT professionals.
As discussions continue, both leaders appear committed to strengthening U.S.-India relations through defense partnerships, economic cooperation, and energy security. With significant agreements expected in the near future, this meeting marks a milestone in bilateral ties, setting the stage for deeper collaboration in key strategic areas.
