PM Narendra Modi’s US visit on February 13, 2025 is not just an official meeting, but can also be the beginning of a new chapter of India-US relations. This visit is taking place just four weeks after Donald Trump’s second presidential term, which shows that both countries want to strengthen their strategic friendship with each other. But the question arises whether this relationship is really for the better future of both countries, or is it just a political necessity?
Sign of Personal Chemistry
The friendship between Modi and Trump is not new. Events like “Howdy Modi” (Houston, 2019) and “Namaste Trump” (Ahmedabad, 2020) showed their personal bonding to the world. But is personal friendship above national interest? This question arises every time when both leaders take different stances on sensitive issues like trade or immigration.
Trump works on the “America First” policy, while Modi is promoting “Make in India”. These two nationalism-based leaders support each other and also compete.
Immigration and Deportation – India’s Concern
A big issue is the deportation of Indian immigrants. So far 104 illegal Indian immigrants have been sent back, and 800 more people are expected to be deported. India’s concern is that there should be no inhuman treatment and legal immigration should remain open. There are 7.25 lakh Indian immigrants inside America, out of which 20,000 people have been identified for deportation.
In such a situation, it is expected that there will be clarity on visa rules and work permits from the Modi-Trump meeting. Will US entry be easy for Indian professionals and students? This is a big question.
Tension over Trade Tariffs
Trade is the biggest pillar of our economy, and this meeting is also important because Trump’s new tariff policy can create problems for India. Trump has called India a “tariff king” and “abuser”, which clearly shows that his approach is not India-friendly.
Now 25% steel and aluminium import tariffs have been imposed, which will directly impact Indian companies. But, India has also slashed some tariffs – like duties on high-end American motorcycles and electric batteries have been reduced.
Both countries can move towards a balanced trade deal, in which Indian markets can open up for American goods, but the question is whether Trump will also reciprocate like this?
China Factor – US-India Strategic Bond
The tension between India and China is not hidden from anyone. The US also considers China a strategic threat, but India is in a neutral position – neither completely ally, nor completely competitor.
With Trump’s tough stance on China, the US can make India its natural partner. Defense deals and military cooperation can be important points of this visit. But will this be just a tactical friendship or a long-term partnership?
Leaders like US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Senator Marco Rubio see India as an important defense ally that can open the doors to future collaborations.
Is this visit just optics?
This visit of Modi cannot be just a diplomatic handshake. It is a reality check on how strong and transactional the India-US ties are.
Key takeaways:
✔ There should be clarity on deportation and visa issues
✔ There should be a solid agreement on trade balance
✔ Defense and energy deals should be finalized
✔ A united stance should be developed against China
If this Modi-Trump meeting remains just a photo-op or optics, then there will be no real gain for India. But if a long-term strategic roadmap emerges from this, then this visit can be another victory for Modi’s foreign policy.
The question is whether Modi and Trump will remain friends for long or will they bring some real benefits? This will become clear in the next few days.