PM Modi to Visit US on February 12-13; Energy, Defence Talks with President Trump on Agenda

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to embark on a significant visit to the United States on February 12 and 13, where he will hold high-level talks with US President Donald Trump and key officials from the US administration. This visit marks PM Modi’s first official trip to the US since President Trump was sworn in for his second term, highlighting the significance of strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations.

Significance of PM Modi’s Visit to the US

During a special media briefing, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized the strategic importance of PM Modi’s upcoming trip. He pointed out that the visit, occurring within just three weeks of the new administration taking office, underscores the deep-rooted partnership between India and the United States.

“At the invitation of US President Donald Trump, PM Modi will pay an official working visit to the United States on February 12 and 13. This will be the Prime Minister’s first visit to the US since Trump’s second term began,” Misri stated.

“The fact that the Prime Minister has been invited within barely three weeks of the new administration taking office demonstrates the importance of the India-US partnership and reflects the bipartisan support this relationship enjoys in the US,” he added.

Key Agenda Items: Strengthening Cooperation in Energy and Defence

Foreign Secretary Misri confirmed that the focal points of PM Modi’s discussions with US President Donald Trump will include energy collaboration and defence cooperation. These two sectors have been at the core of India-US relations, and the upcoming talks are expected to further bolster strategic cooperation.

“Energy and defence will definitely be on the table when the Prime Minister and the President meet. On tariffs, you have seen the announcements made in the budget—some of those are already public. We expect a more intense and ongoing conversation with the US on these matters,” Misri elaborated.

India is keen on expanding its energy security by engaging in partnerships with the US in oil and gas supply, clean energy initiatives, and renewable energy projects. Defence discussions are expected to focus on joint military exercises, defence procurement, and technological collaboration.

Bilateral Meetings and High-Level Engagements

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US will include a series of bilateral meetings with President Trump, taking place in both restricted and delegation-level formats. Additionally, the Prime Minister will hold discussions with key US administration officials, reinforcing diplomatic and economic engagements.

“The Prime Minister will hold bilateral talks with President Trump in both restricted and delegation-level formats. Senior US administration officials are expected to call on the Prime Minister during the visit. Additionally, PM Modi will have the opportunity to interact with business leaders and members of the Indian community,” Misri stated.

This interaction with business leaders will focus on attracting American investments in India, fostering technological collaboration, and enhancing trade relations between the two nations. The meeting with the Indian diaspora is expected to strengthen cultural ties and reaffirm the contributions of the Indian community in the US.

India-US Relations: A Strengthening Global Partnership

India and the United States have consistently deepened their strategic and economic partnership over the years. The collaboration extends across multiple sectors, including trade, defence, technology, and diplomatic relations.

With growing cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, space technology, and infrastructure development, the two nations are poised to explore new avenues for mutual growth.

This visit comes at a time when both India and the US are looking to expand their engagement in emerging technologies, energy security, and global security dynamics.

PM Modi’s Visit to France Before US Trip

Ahead of his visit to the United States, PM Modi will be in France from February 10 to 12, where he will co-chair the AI Summit alongside French President Emmanuel Macron. This event will also provide an opportunity for the Prime Minister to address the India-France CEOs Forum and discuss economic cooperation between the two nations.

“After the AI Summit, there will be a bilateral component to the visit, where PM Modi and President Macron will address the India-France CEOs Forum,” Misri stated.

PM Modi’s engagements in France are expected to boost collaboration in the fields of artificial intelligence, innovation, and trade, further strengthening Indo-French ties before he embarks on his visit to the United States.

The upcoming diplomatic tour underscores India’s commitment to fostering strong international partnerships with key global players, positioning the country as a vital partner in global economic and security affairs.

Conclusion

PM Modi’s visit to the United States comes at a critical time, underscoring the growing importance of India-US relations in key areas such as defence, energy, and trade. With both nations committed to strengthening their strategic partnership, this high-level engagement is expected to pave the way for deeper cooperation in technology, security, and economic development.

Additionally, his visit to France before heading to the US highlights India's proactive global diplomacy, reinforcing its position as a key player in shaping international policies on artificial intelligence, business, and innovation. As India continues to expand its global footprint, these diplomatic engagements will play a vital role in shaping the country's strategic alliances for the future.