Prime Minister Modi to Visit US for Talks with President Trump Amid Immigration Row
New Delhi, Feb 7 – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to the United States for a two-day visit on February 12 and 13, where he will hold bilateral discussions with US President Donald Trump in Washington, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Friday. This will be Modi’s first official trip to the US since Trump began his second term, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations.
The visit comes at a time of heightened tensions in India-US relations, particularly due to the recent deportation of 104 Indian immigrants by US authorities. The issue is expected to be a key topic during Modi’s meeting with Trump, along with discussions on trade, defence, technology cooperation, and regional security.
Key Agendas for Modi’s US Visit
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, while announcing the visit, highlighted that bilateral trade, defence collaboration, immigration, and investment partnerships will be the main focus of discussions.
“The Prime Minister’s visit aims to further strengthen India-US strategic relations, addressing vital concerns such as fair trade, technology transfer, security cooperation, and the increasing challenges of illegal immigration,” Misri stated at a press briefing.
The visit follows a phone conversation on January 27 between Modi and Trump, during which the US President urged India to increase its purchase of American security equipment and work towards a more balanced trade relationship. Currently, India holds a $32 billion trade surplus with the US, making trade negotiations an important aspect of the visit.
Immigration Controversy: A Sensitive Issue
Modi’s visit comes in the wake of the US government’s deportation of 104 Indian immigrants, who were forcibly sent back on a military aircraft. This move has sparked debate in India, with opposition parties criticizing the treatment of deportees, particularly the use of handcuffs and other restraints.
Foreign Secretary Misri revealed that the US has provided India with a list of 487 more presumed Indian citizens facing deportation. India is verifying their identities, and more deportation flights are likely in the future.
“The US classified this as a national security operation, which is why a military aircraft was used. India is engaging with US authorities to ensure the humane treatment of deportees,” Misri said.
Since 2009, over 15,000 Indian nationals have been deported from the US, with the highest numbers recorded during Trump’s first presidency. The Indian government maintains that while illegal immigration is not encouraged, deportations should be conducted with dignity and due process.
Trade and Strategic Interests at Stake
Apart from immigration, H-1B visa policies will also be a crucial topic of discussion. India has been advocating for an increase in H-1B visas, which are vital for Indian IT professionals working in the US.
Additionally, concerns over Trump’s “America First” trade policies have affected sectors like pharmaceuticals, automobiles, and technology exports from India. Reports suggest India might review import tariffs on over 30 US goods, including luxury cars and solar equipment, to ease trade tensions.
France Visit Before US Trip
Before heading to Washington, Modi will visit France from February 10 to 12 to co-chair the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron. The discussions will focus on AI governance, international policies, and India’s growing role in the global AI sector.
Strengthening India-US Ties Amid Challenges
As Modi prepares to visit Washington, India-US relations stand at a crucial juncture. While defence, trade, and technology partnerships are expected to grow under Trump’s administration, immigration policies remain a contentious issue.
With bilateral trade exceeding $118 billion in 2023-24, Modi and Trump will look to address economic challenges while enhancing strategic ties in the Indo-Pacific region. The outcome of this visit will be closely observed, as it will shape India’s engagement with the US in the coming years.
***
