U.S. Vice President JD Vance is set to begin a four-day visit to India on Monday, where he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an effort to advance an early trade agreement and bolster ties with the Trump administration, as New Delhi seeks to avoid potentially steep U.S. tariffs.
The meeting with Modi will take place on the first day of what has been described as a largely personal trip. Vance is also expected to visit the Taj Mahal and attend a wedding in Jaipur, according to sources familiar with the agenda.
Vance’s wife, Usha, has Indian heritage, being the daughter of immigrants from India.
“We are very positive that the visit will give a further boost to our bilateral ties,” said Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a briefing on Thursday, underscoring the significance of Vance’s engagements.
Vance’s visit is being closely watched as Washington and New Delhi navigate a complex mix of trade negotiations, strategic cooperation, and geopolitical alignment. The trip forms part of a broader diplomatic push by the Trump administration amid rising global trade tensions and the intensifying U.S.-China rivalry.
What’s on the Table
Meeting with PM Modi: Vance will hold talks with Modi on trade, economic cooperation, and strategic alignment.
Review of bilateral progress: Both leaders will evaluate progress since Modi’s February visit to Washington and the outcomes of the India-U.S. Joint Statement issued on 13 February 2025.
Trade deal talks: India may reduce tariffs on more than half of its imports from the U.S., valued at $41.8 billion in 2024, to pave the way for a trade deal.
Tariff tensions: Despite ongoing negotiations, President Trump has labelled India a “tariff abuser” and “tariff king.” A 90-day pause on tariff hikes, announced on 9 April, offers a limited window to finalise an agreement.
Defence cooperation: Enhancing defence ties remains a priority, with plans for joint production and procurement of systems such as Javelin anti-tank missiles and Stryker infantry vehicles.
Geopolitical dialogue: Talks will include regional and global concerns, particularly in the Indo-Pacific.
Quad summit preparation: The visit is seen as a precursor to President Trump’s upcoming trip to India for the Quad leaders’ summit later this year.
The U.S. remains India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $129 billion in 2024, and a trade surplus of $45.7 billion in India’s favour, according to U.S. government data.
Vance will be accompanied by administration officials, though no formal agreements are expected to be signed during the visit. Talks on defence procurements will be advanced during a future visit by U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, expected in the coming months.
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