Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the United States early on Thursday (Indian time) and was welcomed by members of the Indian-American diaspora at Blair House, the President’s Guest House. Despite freezing temperatures and rain, community members gathered outside, chanting ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’, ‘Vande Mataram’, and ‘Modi Modi’ while waving Indian and American flags.
In a post on X, Modi wrote, “A warm reception in the winter chill! Despite the cold weather, the Indian diaspora in Washington DC has welcomed me with a very special welcome. My gratitude to them.”
Prime Minister Modi is the fourth foreign leader hosted by US President Donald Trump since his inauguration last month.
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During his two-day visit, Modi and Trump are set to hold high-level discussions at the White House. They are scheduled to meet at 2.35 am (IST) and will address a press briefing at 3.40 am (IST).
Trade and economic cooperation are expected to be key areas of focus, with New Delhi concerned over Washington’s ‘America First’ trade policy.
According to media reports, discussions may explore a possible trade pact to prevent high tariffs and expand economic engagement. New Delhi is reportedly considering reducing tariffs in certain sectors if the US reciprocates.
The leaders are also expected to discuss cooperation in trade, investment, energy, defence, technology, and immigration. The broader geopolitical landscape, including the Indo-Pacific region, Ukraine, and developments in West Asia, is also likely to be on the agenda.
Energy ties will be another area of discussion, with India reportedly considering civil nuclear cooperation with the US in small modular reactors (SMRs).
Modi is also expected to meet entrepreneur Elon Musk during the visit, with discussions likely to include Starlink’s entry into the Indian market, a news outlet reported, citing sources familiar with the plans.
Upon his arrival, Modi met Tulsi Gabbard, US Director of National Intelligence, to discuss intelligence cooperation in counter-terrorism and emerging threats.
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