Trump and Modi Strengthen Ties amid Trade and Security Talks

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently became the fourth global leader to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House since the start of Trump’s second term. Their meeting underscored a growing partnership, as both leaders praised each other while carefully avoiding contentious issues.

Trade Disparities and Economic Cooperation

A key topic was Trump’s new policy on "reciprocal tariffs," aimed at equalizing import taxes. Despite past tensions over tariffs—Trump once referred to Modi as the "king of tariffs"—both leaders agreed to negotiate trade imbalances. Their proposed framework includes not only trade discussions but also cooperation in space exploration, security, and energy. Modi pledged to double U.S.-India trade to $500 billion by 2030, signaling economic alignment.

Modi Aligns with Trump’s "MAGA" Vision

During the meeting, Modi echoed Trump’s nationalist rhetoric, introducing the phrase “Make India Great Again” (MIGA) as a counterpart to Trump's “Make America Great Again” (MAGA). He emphasized that both leaders prioritize their nations' interests above all else, reinforcing their ideological affinity.

Security and Counterterrorism Commitments

Security discussions highlighted Trump’s decision to extradite Tahawwur Rana, a Pakistani-Canadian linked to the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Modi praised this move and reaffirmed India’s commitment to combating terrorism alongside the U.S. Trump also announced increased military sales to India and pledged to enhance collaboration against global terrorism.

Trump’s Ukraine Stance Raises Questions

While U.S.-India relations dominated the meeting, Trump faced questions about his talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the Ukraine war. Trump’s remarks suggested alignment with Russia’s concerns over Ukraine joining NATO, sparking skepticism from Ukraine and its allies. Modi, however, remained silent on the issue, reflecting India’s historically close ties with Moscow.

This meeting reaffirmed the strategic alliance between the U.S. and India, emphasizing economic, security, and geopolitical cooperation while sidestepping sensitive disputes.