WASHINGTON: United State President Donald Trump has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a two-day working visit to the White House next week. A senior White House official confirmed the news on Wednesday.
The visit comes after a phone call between the two leaders on January 27. They discussed important regional and global matters, including security concerns in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe.
A White House statement said both leaders are committed to strengthening US-India ties. Trump urged India to buy more American security equipment and support fair trade between the two countries.
"President Trump had a productive conversation with Prime Minister Modi. They spoke about expanding cooperation and Modi’s visit to the White House. They also reaffirmed their commitment to the Indo-Pacific Quad partnership, with India set to host Quad Leaders later this year," the statement said.
The announcement comes amid immigration tensions between the US and India. Earlier, a US Air Force plane carrying Indian citizens allegedly involved in illegal migration landed in Amritsar, Punjab.
The United States Embassy spokesperson said they could not share details but emphasized that the US will strictly enforce its immigration laws. They also warned against illegal migration, calling it a serious risk.
Modi's US Visit: Key Details and Expected Talks
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to meet US President Donald Trump on February 13 in Washington, DC, sources said. Trump is also likely to host a dinner for Modi.
Modi is set to arrive in Washington on February 12 after completing his France visit. He will stay in the US capital until February 14. Apart from meeting Trump, he is also expected to engage with American corporate leaders and the Indian community.
Trade and visa policies will be major topics of discussion. The US is India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade crossing $118 billion in 2023-24. Trump has been pushing to reduce the US trade deficit with India, and New Delhi recently lowered customs duties on key items in the Budget to benefit American companies.
After a recent phone call, Trump told reporters that Modi was likely to visit the US in February. He also mentioned discussing illegal immigration with Modi, expressing confidence that the Indian leader would “do the right thing.” India has already committed to taking back citizens who illegally entered the US after proper verification.