WASHINGTON: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Washington DC on Thursday (local time) for a High-Level meeting with US President Donald Trump. At first, he met with America’s intelligence chief, Tulsi Gabbard.

Their meeting comes at a time when there are tensions over Trump’s trade policies, his Gaza peace plan, and mass deportations of illegal immigrants. These topics are expected to be part of their discussions as both countries work on strengthening ties.

PM Modi is the fourth world leader to meet Trump at the White House since his second term began on January 20. Before him, Trump had already hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and Jordan’s King Abdullah.

Modi’s US Visit and Intelligence Talks

PM Modi is on a two-day trip to the US after attending the Paris AI Action Summit in France with French President Emmanuel Macron. After arriving in Washington, he had a discussion with Tulsi Gabbard, the US Director of National Intelligence. Their talks focused on boosting intelligence cooperation, particularly in counter-terrorism and new security threats. Modi also congratulated Gabbard, a Hindu-American, on becoming the top intelligence official in the US. She was confirmed for the role on Wednesday.

India’s Concerns Over Deportations

Ahead of PM Modi’s visit, the Trump administration deported 104 Indian illegal immigrants. They were sent back on a military aircraft, with their hands and feet chained. Reports suggest that around 800 more people, including 487 Indian citizens, are expected to be deported soon. India has supported its citizens but has also raised concerns about how they are being treated by US authorities.

Defence & Energy Deals

Apart from trade, Modi’s visit is expected to center on boosting defence and energy partnerships between the two nations. India is actively negotiating deals on advanced fighter jet engines and combat vehicle production with the US. Increased energy imports from American firms are also on the agenda. Officials believe these agreements will play a crucial role in ensuring stable bilateral ties and preventing economic disputes.

Modi’s US visit marks major weight in shaping the future of India-US trade relations. By making strategic tariff cuts and finalising key agreements, India aims to develop its partnership with Washington, while making clear of any trade restrictions that may hurt its economic growth.