ISLAMABAD: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India and the United States have set a target to double bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030, while US President Donald Trump proposed selling advanced fighter jets to India.
Modi made the statement after a summit with Trump in Washington, where both leaders discussed collaboration on artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and strengthening supply chains for strategic minerals. Modi expressed his commitment to boosting trade, reviving a relationship that transcends the US administration’s often aggressive approach to global relations.
During the summit, Trump, who described Modi as a “friend,” complimented him for being a “tougher negotiator” than himself. Trump also highlighted that successive US administrations view India as a crucial partner, especially in countering the growing influence of China. Trump revealed plans to increase US military sales to India by billions of dollars, including the potential sale of F-35 stealth fighters.
Despite the trade discussions, Trump criticized India’s “unfair, very strong tariffs” but assured that both countries would negotiate to address the trade deficit, focusing on oil and gas.
Elon Musk, who attended the meeting with Modi and Trump, further fueled speculation about his growing influence, meeting Modi in both official and business capacities. Modi also took the opportunity to highlight his longstanding relationship with Musk, noting his familiarity with the SpaceX and Tesla tycoon since before becoming prime minister.
Ahead of the visit, India had made concessions, including slashing tariffs on high-end motorcycles, benefiting US companies like Harley-Davidson. Modi also addressed the issue of illegal immigration, confirming that India would repatriate undocumented citizens as part of cooperation with Trump’s immigration crackdown.
Additionally, Trump announced the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a suspect involved in the 2008 Mumbai attacks, to India.
Both Modi and Trump share a vision of promoting majority communities while suppressing dissent, as evidenced by their respective political campaigns. Modi’s 2020 invitation to Trump to inaugurate the world’s largest cricket stadium in Gujarat further solidified their growing partnership.
Trump is expected to visit India later this year for a summit with the Quad nations – Australia, India, Japan, and the United States.
