Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to hold bilateral talks with U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 Summit next week. Trade, visa policies, and energy cooperation are likely to dominate the discussions, according to a source.
The G7 Summit will take place in Évian-les-Bains from June 15 to 17. India is among several invited partner countries participating in the gathering of major global economies.
Modi is scheduled to begin a five-day overseas visit on June 13. Following the summit, he is expected to travel to Slovakia as part of his diplomatic itinerary.
Trade and Visa Issues Set to Dominate Talks
Sources indicated that both leaders are expected to discuss ongoing trade negotiations. India is seeking preferential tariff treatment as part of an interim trade agreement currently under discussion.
The United States has also proposed an additional 12.5 percent tariff on imports from India and several other countries. Washington argues the measure addresses forced labor concerns, while India has rejected the allegations.
Another major topic will likely be H-1B visa policies. Indian officials remain concerned about stricter visa requirements affecting thousands of Indian professionals working in the United States.
Energy Cooperation and Bilateral Relations
The expected meeting comes as New Delhi and Washington work to improve relations following disagreements over tariffs and comments related to last year’s India-Pakistan conflict. India has rejected Trump’s repeated claims that he helped end the conflict.
Recent diplomatic engagement, including a visit by Marco Rubio to India, has helped ease tensions. Discussions have covered trade, maritime security, energy supplies, and regional issues.
Sources also suggested that Modi and Trump may explore potential energy cooperation involving the United States and Venezuela. Meanwhile, trade negotiators continue efforts to finalize the first phase of a bilateral trade agreement by mid-July.
