Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a two-day visit to the United States from February 12 to 13, 2025, following an official invitation from President Donald Trump. This marks Modi’s first visit to Washington since Trump’s return to the White House, signaling a renewed push for closer India-U.S. cooperation in defense, trade, and geopolitics.
DEFENSE AND SECURITY PARTNERSHIPS IN FOCUS
India and the U.S. are poised to deepen their defense collaboration, with high-level discussions expected on:
Co-producing Stryker Combat Vehicles with U.S. defense giant General Dynamics, strengthening India’s armored capabilities.
Finalizing the India-U.S. fighter jet engine deal, a major step toward indigenous military production through a partnership between General Electric and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
These agreements align with India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiative, reducing reliance on foreign defense imports while expanding military interoperability with the U.S. .
ECONOMIC AND TRADE BOOST: INDIA’S TARIFF CONCESSIONS
Economic engagement will be another crucial aspect of the visit. In an effort to enhance trade ties and avoid potential disputes, India is proposing tariff reductions on key U.S. exports, including:
Electronics
Medical and surgical equipment
Chemicals
The move is aimed at facilitating greater market access for American businesses in India while promoting bilateral trade growth, which crossed $118 billion in 2023-24.
Strengthening Workforce Mobility: Visa Talks on the Table
With Indian professionals forming a significant part of the U.S. tech and healthcare industries, Modi is expected to advocate for smoother visa policies. Discussions will likely focus on expanding work visa quotas and addressing concerns over H-1B visa processing delays, an issue that has long been a priority for India.
By facilitating greater mobility for skilled professionals, India hopes to enhance its human capital contribution to the U.S. economy.
THE LARGER GEOPOLITICAL PICTURE
Beyond defense and trade, the visit holds broader geopolitical significance:
Indo-Pacific Strategy: The U.S. views India as a crucial partner in countering China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific, making defense coordination a key agenda point.
Technology & Supply Chains: Discussions may include collaborations in semiconductors, renewable energy, and digital infrastructure, areas where the U.S. sees India as a potential alternative to China.
Leadership in the Global South: Modi is also expected to discuss India’s role as a leading voice for developing nations, particularly in areas of climate change, energy security, and economic reforms.
A VISIT WITH FAR-REACHING IMPACT
Modi’s visit to Washington is more than just another diplomatic engagement—it is an opportunity to redefine India-U.S. relations in an era of shifting global dynamics.
With key agreements in defense, trade, and technology on the table, the visit is expected to yield tangible outcomes that will shape bilateral ties for years to come.