Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to embark on a two-day visit to the United States from February 12, where he will hold high-stakes discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump on trade, defence, and global strategic partnerships, according to sources familiar with the development.
As per the current schedule, Modi will travel to Washington, D.C., after concluding his two-day visit to Paris, where he is attending the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit on February 10-11. Upon arrival in the U.S. capital on February 12, he is expected to meet President Trump for bilateral talks the following day.
This will be Modi’s first bilateral visit to the U.S. since Trump secured a second term in office following his victory in the November 2024 elections. Notably, Modi will be among the first world leaders to meet Trump since his inauguration on January 20, 2025—a testament to the significance of India-U.S. relations in the global geopolitical landscape.
The visit comes at a time when there are growing concerns in India regarding Trump’s recent tariff and immigration policies. On Sunday, Trump announced a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports, along with an additional 10% duty on Chinese goods, raising uncertainties about U.S. trade policies with other key global partners, including India.
While there has been no official confirmation from either government, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) recently stated that it is working with the U.S. on scheduling an “early visit” for PM Modi. The talks are expected to address pressing issues, including:
- Trade and Tariffs: India will likely seek clarity on Trump’s trade policies, aiming to reduce trade barriers and secure favorable agreements.
- Defence and Strategic Cooperation: Strengthening India-U.S. defence ties through joint military exercises, arms purchases, and regional security cooperation.
- Technology and AI Collaboration: Building on India’s participation in the AI Action Summit, discussions may include U.S.-India partnerships in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies.
- Immigration Policies: Addressing concerns over Trump’s stance on immigration and H-1B visa regulations, which significantly impact Indian professionals in the U.S.
- PM Modi’s visit will be closely watched, especially as India seeks to balance its diplomatic relations with the U.S., Europe, and other global powers amid growing geopolitical uncertainties. With Modi’s upcoming Paris visit focusing on AI and innovation, his Washington trip is expected to strengthen economic and security ties with the U.S..
Given the shifting global trade dynamics, Modi’s dialogue with Trump could set the tone for India-U.S. relations in the coming years.