Washington DC: Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in high-level discussions today with billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, US National Security Adviser Michael Waltz, and Indian-American businessman Vivek Ramaswamy ahead of his crucial bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump.
PM Modi’s talks with President Trump come amid the US administration’s latest trade measures, including tariff revisions within a month of Trump’s return to office. As one of the first world leaders to meet the Republican leader following his re-election, PM Modi continues his strong diplomatic engagement with Washington, building on his past rapport with Trump.
Strategic Talks with NSA Waltz
Following his meeting with NSA Michael Waltz, PM Modi highlighted key areas of collaboration.
“Had a productive discussion with NSA Michael Waltz, a steadfast supporter of India. Defence, technology, and security remain vital pillars of India-US relations. We explored opportunities for deeper cooperation in AI, semiconductors, space, and other emerging sectors,” PM Modi stated in a post on X.
Engagement with Elon Musk on Innovation and Governance
During his conversation with Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, PM Modi emphasized India’s commitment to fostering innovation and ease of governance.
“Had an insightful meeting with Elon Musk in Washington DC. We delved into topics he is deeply passionate about, including space, mobility, technology, and innovation. I also shared India’s ongoing efforts in governance reforms, focusing on ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance,’” PM Modi posted on X.
Trade, Tariffs, and Migration Challenges
In a move to ease trade tensions ahead of PM Modi’s visit, India recently slashed duties on premium motorcycles, benefiting American manufacturers like Harley-Davidson. The tariff adjustment aims to address longstanding trade concerns between the two nations.
However, the Trump administration remains firm on its stance against trade imbalances. In a post on Truth Social, President Trump announced plans to unveil new tariff measures at 11:30 PM, escalating fears of a potential global trade dispute. Meanwhile, the US repatriated 100 undocumented Indian immigrants via a military aircraft, prompting India to intensify its own crackdown on illegal migration.
Bolstering Defence Ties
Trump administration officials have signaled their intent to narrow the US trade deficit with India and finalize a fair bilateral trade agreement by 2025. Defence cooperation will also be a focal point in the Modi-Trump talks, with discussions expected to advance a new defence framework prioritizing American technology.
“For nearly three decades, successive US administrations have viewed India as a strategic ally, particularly in countering China’s growing influence. However, President Trump has taken a tough stance on trade with India, making it a key priority of his new term,” an official remarked ahead of the high-profile discussions set to take place in Washington on Thursday afternoon.
As both nations navigate complex geopolitical and economic challenges, PM Modi’s visit underscores the evolving partnership between India and the US in an increasingly dynamic global landscape.
