How Modi’s Timely Visit Shaped India US Ties
Prof Jasim Mohammad
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the U.S. came at the right time. Instead of waiting for the unpredictable President Donald Trump to make decisions—especially on issues like tariffs, which he is passionate about—Modi chose to take the lead. He engaged with Trump directly to find a way that could address both their concerns in a positive and productive manner. This smart approach helped ensure that India’s interests were also considered while dealing with Trump’s priorities. Narendra Modi made a smart move by acting early to shape India-US relations under Trump’s second term. He relied on the good relationship he had built with Trump in the past to ensure his visit happened at the right time. Instead of allowing doubts to affect the positive ties between the two countries, he took the initiative to keep the momentum going.
Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India has strengthened its position in the world by focusing on economic growth and strategic goals. His diplomatic efforts have made India an important global player, actively signing trade deals and reducing dependence on any one country. In 2024, India’s economy crossed $4 trillion, making it the fifth-largest in the world. Now, the government is working to double foreign trade to $2 trillion by 2030. This progress is supported by record foreign investment, which reached $85 billion in 2024—proof that programs like ‘Make in India’ and improved infrastructure are attracting global businesses. During his fresh visit to the U.S., Prime Minister Narendra Modi held important discussions that resulted in clear steps to resolve trade and tariff issues. India’s decision to increase oil and gas imports from the U.S. by $10 billion has boosted the energy partnership between the two countries. With this growing cooperation, trade between India and the U.S. is expected to reach $500 billion by 2030.
However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s early visit and direct interaction with Trump was a smart decision. Trump tends to rely on his impressions rather than details and often makes statements that are not entirely accurate. This was clear during his joint press conference with Modi, where he claimed the U.S. had a $100 billion trade deficit with India, while the actual figure is $45.6 billion. He also mentioned India’s long-standing issues with Bangladesh, possibly referring to historical conflicts linked to Islamic invasions that eventually led to the creation of Pakistan.
The U.S. imposing tariffs on Indian products may seem like a problem, but it could actually help India in the long run. It will encourage Indian businesses to innovate and strengthen their industries. President Trump has also clarified that these tariffs are part of his global trade policies and not meant to target India specifically. Since selling to the U.S. has become harder, Indian industries now have to improve their technology, make better products, and become more efficient to stay competitive.
This situation could lead to important changes, attract more investment in local manufacturing, and help India’s economy grow stronger over time. Top U.S. experts Ashley J. Tellis and Lisa Curtis, who have worked in the American government, praised Prime Minister Modi for handling talks with President Trump very successfully, even with trade tensions in the background. Tellis pointed out that Modi’s visit, just a month after Trump took office, was a smart move to strengthen India’s position as an important U.S. partner—and he succeeded in every way.
The visit, famously dubbed “Modi Makes Magic,” demonstrated the Prime Minister’s remarkable ability to navigate President Trump’s tough stance on trade and security. Handling a personality like Trump is no easy feat, but the visit showcased how Modi managed to create a positive and productive atmosphere despite the challenges. The joint statement that followed reflected the growing recognition of India as a trusted partner in several key areas.
Modi’s personal touch shone through with his clever twist on Trump’s “MAGA” (Make America Great Again) slogan. By introducing “MIGA” (Make India Great Again), he emphasized that when the U.S. and India collaborate, “MAGA + MIGA” forms a “MEGA” partnership that drives prosperity and mutual growth. This approach highlights the strength and potential of the India-U.S. relationship, built on both strategic and economic cooperation.
The two leaders are determined to advance the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor and the I2U2 Group within the next six months, with new plans to be announced in 2025. This is a bold move, especially considering the impact of the Gaza conflict on Israel’s relationship with the Arab world. They also aim to establish new partnerships in defense, technology, energy, and critical minerals across the Western Indian Ocean, Middle East, and Indo-Pacific by fall 2025. This is particularly interesting for the Indo-Pacific, as the Quad already exists as a plurilateral partnership in that region.
Regarding the ongoing debate in the U.S. over H1B visas, India has pointed out in the joint statement the positive aspects of people-to-people ties. The Indian student community in the U.S., which numbers over 300,000, contributes more than $8 billion annually to the U.S. economy. The joint statement also acknowledges how the exchange of talent, students, researchers, and employees has benefited both nations.
Despite the current mood in the U.S., both leaders have highlighted the need for new, secure systems that support the movement of people across borders in a way that benefits both countries. They agreed to make it easier for students and professionals to travel legally while also tackling issues like illegal immigration and human trafficking. The statement also mentions threats to public safety, diplomacy, and the sovereignty of both nations, which could be seen as a subtle reference to Khalistani groups.
The meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump proved to be a significant moment in strengthening the India-U.S. relationship. Modi’s visit was strategically aimed at reassuring Trump that India is a valuable partner for the United States, sharing common goals and aspirations.
This visit was not just about aligning with Trump’s global vision, but also about securing India’s position and gaining some protection from the challenges posed by Trump’s trade policies. The interactions over the course of the visit showed that Modi successfully conveyed India’s importance as a reliable partner, effectively overcoming any potential obstacles in trade and other areas. Through the course of discussions and engagements, Modi’s approach demonstrated that India could navigate complex international relations with confidence, all while promoting mutual success.
The visit clearly reinforced the idea that India’s role in global affairs is growing, and it is no longer a passive participant in its partnerships but an active, influential player. This success was not just in winning over Trump but in building a stronger foundation for long-term collaboration between the two nations.
(Author, an AMU Professor, chairs Centre for Narendra Modi Studies. His can be reached on: profjasimmd@gmail.com)
