**Indian PM Narendra Modi Visits Washington: What to Expect**
This week, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Washington and meet President Donald Trump. The two leaders have a strong personal rapport and share similar views on many issues.
Their chemistry stems from their shared focus on countering China, a common concern that has strengthened the US-India partnership. During their meeting, they will likely discuss next steps in this strategic partnership.
**A Transactional Side to the Relationship**
However, beneath the warm hugs and shared laughs, there is a more transactional side to the relationship. Trump and Modi will likely discuss several issues, including:
* Lowering tariffs: India has already lowered some tariffs and taken back undocumented Indian immigrants.
* Buying American oil: India was the top destination for American oil exports in 2021, but imports from Russia have increased since the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
* Investing in nuclear energy: India aims to meet half its energy requirements through renewable energy by 2030.
**Tech Co-Operation and Visas**
The two leaders will also discuss tech co-operation, including the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET). Modi may make a pitch for Trump to maintain the H-1B visa regime, which has been awarded to large numbers of Indian tech employees in the US.
**Other Issues**
Other issues that may come up during Modi’s visit include:
* Iran: India is partnering with Tehran to develop a port in Chabahar city, but the US administration has released a presidential memorandum outlining Trump’s “maximum pressure” campaign on Tehran.
* Ukraine and Gaza: Delhi has a strong interest in these wars winding down.
**Maintaining a Positive Tone**
Despite some potentially delicate discussions, both leaders will want to maintain a positive tone. The Indo-Pacific Quad, which includes the US, India, Japan, and Australia, may be discussed as a way to counter Beijing.
Trump strongly backs this group and has elevated its annual meetings to the foreign minister level. Modi may invite Trump to Delhi to attend this year’s meeting.
**A Deeper Personal Relationship**
For Trump, the visit is also an opportunity to deepen his personal relationship with Modi and advance a multifaceted bilateral partnership that extends well beyond the transactional side of their relationship.
Read More @ www.bbc.com
