PM Modi and Trump strengthen ties: F-35 jets, energy deals and trade resolutions

F-35 Fighter Jet : Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump have agreed on key economic and defence projects to ease trade tensions. The talks held at the White House came after Trump announced plans to impose retaliatory tariffs on countries imposing tariffs on US imports.

At the joint press briefing, Trump revealed that PM Modi has shown a willingness to negotiate for tariff cuts and increasing India’s purchases of US oil, gas and military aircraft. These concessions are an attempt to avoid a trade war and foster stronger bilateral ties.

India intends to significantly increase purchases of US defence hardware, including fighter jets. Trump underlined that India wants to see the US as its “number one supplier” of oil and gas and is considering ordering the most expensive US defence programme, F-35 stealth fighter jets made by Lockheed Martin.

Relations between the two leaders remain cordial, but Trump again raised concerns about “very high” tariffs imposed by India on US products. The US leader stressed that Washington would impose balanced taxes on imports from India to keep trade balanced. The two countries have committed to hold trade talks to resolve these disputes.

According to a top Trump administration official, a major deal could be reached by the end of the year. The leaders also committed to enhance cooperation in security in the Indo-Pacific region, generally considered a strategic balance to China’s growing reach. The partnership will be extended to co-production in advanced areas such as artificial intelligence and nuclear energy.

The current US trade deficit with India is $45.6 billion. The World Trade Organization said the US’ trade-weighted tariff level is about 2.2%, while India’s is 12%. Apart from trade, Trump called on India to help solve illegal immigration to the US. India is an important source of high-skill immigrants, particularly in the technology industry, and it also sends undocumented migrants to the US.

Prime Minister Modi met Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk at Blair House, possibly to discuss Starlink’s entry into the Indian market. Modi also held talks with Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, focusing on counterterrorism and cybersecurity.

Trump recognised India’s important role in containing China’s growing global influence. While India is wary of Chinese military expansion, the two countries are seeking closer economic and defence ties to help ensure regional stability.

In response to the recent border clashes between India and China, Trump offered to mediate if necessary. Meanwhile, India’s continued dialogue with Russia amid the Ukraine crisis remains a matter of controversy on the world stage.

Refusing allegations of neutrality in global conflicts, Prime Minister Modi said, “India has a side, and that side is of peace.” This statement reflects India’s diplomatic approach while maintaining its strategic alliances. The meeting between PM Modi and President Trump has opened the way for enhanced economic and defence cooperation.

Although the issue of trade barriers is still a matter of concern, both leaders are excited about finding compromises that will work in favour of both countries. As India moves towards becoming a major ally of the US, its changing role in global politics is still in the spotlight.