Washington: In a significant reaffirmation of their partnership, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump highlighted the robust India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, rooted in mutual trust and shared democratic values. During their high-profile meeting in Washington, the leaders spoke about a host of deals — from Washington supplying F-35 fighter jets to New Delhi importing more US oil. Here are key takeaways from the meeting, marking the strengthening of US-India bilateral ties...
Bilateral trade target | Much of the remarks of Trump and Modi during the joint briefing focused on trade. PM Modi said the two nations have set a USD 500 billion target for bilateral trade. Trump also announced a deal with India to import more US oil and gas.
Boost to defense ties | Trump said the US would increase its military sales to India by "billions of dollars" and it would provide fifth-generation F-35 stealth jets to the country. New procurements and co-production arrangements for 'Javelin' anti-tank guided missiles and 'Stryker' Infantry Combat Vehicles were also announced.
Illegal immigration | PM Modi restated India’s firm stand on illegal immigration. He stressed that the country is ready to take back its citizens staying illegally abroad and highlighted the need for a joint effort to pull down human trafficking networks.
(Photos courtesy: X@narendramodi)
Tackling terror together | A key announcement was the extradition of 26/11 terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana, a longstanding demand of India. "My administration has approved the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, one of the very evil people of the world, to face justice in India," Trump said. Modi also said that India and the US will stand strongly together in the fight against terrorism.
Initiatives | The two leaders announced the launch of the 'TRUST' initiative for greater collaboration among governments, academia, and the private sector to drive innovation in defense, AI, semiconductors, energy and space
Russia-Ukraine war | PM Modi said India stood by peace as he praised Trump's efforts to douse the crisis. "The world thinks India is neutral, but India is not neutral. India has its own stance, it is peace. Responding to his remarks, Trump said, "We want to end the war".
Bangladesh crisis | Trump rejected speculation of the involvement of the US deep state. "I will leave Bangladesh to PM Modi," the President said.
India-China ties | When asked about China, Trump said that there are “skirmishes” on the India-China border and that should be “stopped”, and if he could be of help, he can help.
