During a joint press conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Trump emphasised the "special bond" he shares with India. Trump praised Modi as a "much tougher negotiator" and described him as a friend. Modi, who is the fourth world leader to visit the White House since Trump's return to office, echoed these sentiments, adopting a take on Trump's "Make America Great Again" slogan.
Trump revealed that the US would increase military sales to India by billions of dollars, including the long-awaited F-35 stealth fighters. “Starting this year, we'll be increasing military sales to India by many billions of dollars,” Trump said. “We're also paving the way to ultimately provide India with the F-35 stealth fighters.”
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Trade also featured prominently during the meeting, with Modi and Trump agreeing to work towards a mutually beneficial trade deal. "In order to ensure India's energy security, we will focus on trade in oil and gas,” Modi said, expressing hope that a deal would be reached "very soon."
Elon Musk’s involvement
The meeting also included SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who has been instrumental in efforts to overhaul the US bureaucracy. Musk met Modi earlier in the day, with Modi posting pictures of their meeting on social media, noting that he had known Musk even before becoming prime minister.
Although Trump has previously expressed dissatisfaction with Indian tariffs, both leaders agreed to work on a trade agreement that could help resolve some of these issues. “India, traditionally, is the highest, just about the highest tariff country. They charge more tariffs than any other country. And I mean, we'll be talking about that," Trump said.
Ahead of his visit, Modi made several tariff concessions, including reducing duties on high-end motorcycles, which will benefit US manufacturers like Harley-Davidson. Additionally, India accepted a US military flight carrying 100 migrants, in line with Trump’s immigration policies.
The US and India share common goals, including a desire to combat illegal migration and foster stronger economic ties. The relationship between Modi and Trump has grown over the years, with both leaders often aligning on key issues. There are also discussions around a potential summit of the Quad, a strategic group comprising the US, India, Japan, and Australia, later this year.
Agency
Published: 14 Feb 2025, 07:36 am IST
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