Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump announced a bold vision for India-US trade, setting a target to expand bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030. The leaders unveiled this ambition during a joint press conference at the White House on Thursday, marking a significant milestone in the nations’ growing strategic and economic partnership.
A Mega Partnership for Prosperity
Prime Minister Modi, addressing the press alongside President Trump, emphasised the synergy between the two nations. Drawing parallels between Trump’s “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) and India’s aspiration for “Viksit Bharat 2047” (Developed India 2047), Modi said:
“When America and India work together, this MAGA plus MIGA (Make India Great Again) becomes a ‘mega partnership for prosperity.’ This mega spirit gives new scale and scope to our objectives.”
The Prime Minister outlined plans to strengthen trade across sectors, particularly in oil and gas to ensure India’s energy security, as well as joint development in defence, nuclear energy, and technology transfer. He described the collaboration as pivotal to shaping a better world.
Extradition of 26/11 Terror Accused Tahawwur Rana
During the press conference, President Trump announced the US had approved the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, accused of involvement in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, to India. Calling Rana “one of the most evil people of the world,” Trump underscored his commitment to bringing justice for victims of the 2008 attack.
The decision comes after months of legal evaluations by the US State Department and is seen as a testament to the shared resolve of India and the US to combat terrorism.
Twice the Speed, Twice the Resolve
Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed his pledge to accelerate the India-US partnership in his third term as Prime Minister and Trump’s second term as President. “As I promised to the people of India, we will work with twice the speed. With President Trump, we will achieve in the next four years what we could not in the past,” Modi declared.
Both leaders expressed mutual admiration. Modi highlighted Trump’s unwavering focus on national interests, a quality he said India mirrored. Trump, in turn, warmly welcomed Modi at the White House, stating, “We missed you, we missed you a lot.”
Fair Trade and Tariff Reciprocity
President Trump reiterated his administration’s policy on tariff reciprocity, declaring that the US would match tariffs imposed by other countries, including India. While acknowledging trade challenges with the European Union and China as more severe, Trump noted that discussions with India during his first term failed to secure tariff concessions.
“And so, we are being reciprocal with India. Whatever India charges, we charge them. It’s simple and fair for the people of the United States,” Trump remarked, highlighting his commitment to equal trade terms.
Strengthening Ties Beyond Trade
The bilateral talks also explored deeper cooperation in defence, energy, and technology. Modi highlighted plans for joint development and production in defence technologies, including small modular reactors in nuclear energy. He stated, “In the coming days, new technology and equipment will increase our capacities.”
An Extraordinary Welcome
The Prime Minister was greeted at the White House with Indian flags displayed prominently. Accompanied by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and Ambassador Vinay Kwatra, Modi received a warm reception. Trump, introducing Modi to senior US officials, praised the Indian leader’s vision and leadership.
Modi’s visit, among the first by a world leader during Trump’s second term, symbolises the continued strengthening of the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.
As Modi concluded his remarks, he expressed optimism for the future: “Together, we will script a new chapter in the story of India-US relations, one marked by prosperity, innovation, and unwavering friendship.”
