PM Modi-Donald Trump meeting: Defence, $500 billion trade deal amid tariff tension

On Thursday, US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral discussions and unveiled several initiatives to enhance relations between their nations. The meeting at the White House took place shortly after Trump criticized India’s business climate and revealed plans to impose reciprocal tariffs on countries that levy duties on US imports.

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India-US Trade and Defense Relations Strengthen Following White House Talks

Trump said at a press conference that India plans to increase its purchase of US defence equipment, including fighter jets, and may make the US its top oil and gas supplier. Prime Minister Modi said India aims to double trade with the US by 2030. He posted on X, calling his White House meeting with Trump “excellent” and a boost to ties.

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Trump Calls for Justice as Canadian National Rana Remains in US Custody

Rana, a Canadian national of Pakistani origin, is currently in custody at a Los Angeles detention center. He is closely linked to David Coleman Headley, a Pakistani-American terrorist and one of the main conspirators behind the attacks. Trump referred to Rana as “very evil,” emphasising the importance of bringing him to justice in India.

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US-India to Boost Cooperation in Defense, Energy, and Technology

This follows extensive discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where both leaders agreed to enhance cooperation in areas like energy, critical technologies, and connectivity. Trump said that military sales to India would increase by billions of dollars starting this year. He also confirmed that the US is working towards supplying India with advanced F-35 stealth fighters.

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