WASHINGTON – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to rekindle his close relationship with Donald Trump during their meeting at the White House on February 13. He aims to navigate potential tensions around tariffs and immigration with the U.S. president.
this encounter marks another instance of foreign leaders making their way to the Oval Office since Trump’s re-election, as Modi enjoys a cordial rapport with Trump from his first term in office.
In a bid to sweeten relations before his visit,Modi has announced important tariff reductions,including lowered duties on premium motorcycles. This move notably benefits Harley-Davidson, an esteemed American brand that has faced challenges in the Indian market—issues that have previously drawn Trump’s ire.
Moreover, India facilitated a recent U.S. military transport of 100 deported migrants as part of Trump’s immigration reforms and has pledged it’s own stringent measures against illegal influxes.
Vikram Misri, India’s leading diplomat, noted last week that there exists a “very strong connection” between Modi and Trump; however, they have yet to make significant progress toward finalizing a long-desired trade agreement between the two nations.
Following Trump’s election victory in November, Modi was among the first world leaders to reach out and congratulate him as a “good friend.”
For nearly thirty years now, American presidents from both major parties have sought stronger ties with India as it serves as an essential ally against China’s growing influence.
Though, Trump has expressed frustration towards India concerning trade practices—viewing it as one of the foremost foreign policy challenges he faces—and has previously labeled it “the biggest tariff abuser” globally.
‘Bridging Differences’
According to Lisa Curtis, who directed South Asia affairs on the National Security Council during Trump’s initial presidential term: “Modi recognizes this challenge and is proactively taking steps to mitigate any displeasure from Trump.”
Together, Modi’s Hindu-nationalist government is aligning with another of Trump’s key objectives: addressing undocumented immigration issues. While most attention typically centers around arrivals from Latin America,Indians represent the third-largest group after Mexico and El Salvador contributing to unauthorized migration into the U.S.
Last week saw protests in India where activists burned an effigy of Trump after media reports highlighted how those deported were shackled throughout their return flight; opposition groups criticized Modi for appearing weak amid these developments.
Significantly absent from this dialog will likely be discussions surrounding abuse allegations against Muslim citizens and other minorities—a topic unlikely raised by Trump despite prior criticisms voiced by Biden’s administration.
Moreover,Modi becomes only one of four world leaders visiting President Trump post-election—the others being leaders from Israel,elections Japan,and Jordan’s king.And mr.Modi displayed determination through careful outreach towardsTrump in past interactions.Their similarities are striking,both prioritizing initiatives catering mainly towards majority communities while facing down dissenters.
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追溯着在2020年的事件，Modi had notably extended an invitation forTrump's attendance atthe inauguration event for thestadium dubbed asthe world's largest cricket venue—in Gujarat，where over 100K attendees cheered.Turnoutwas evidently remarkable! subsequent plans also indicate potential visitation anticipation’s forthe Quad summit scheduledin 2025—featuring representativesfrom Australia， JapanandAmerica alongsideIndia.【eaf】
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