Amid the ongoing tensions over trade tariffs, a major diplomatic development appears to be underway. Reports suggest that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi may visit the United States next month. During this trip, he is expected to meet US President Donald Trump in an attempt to resolve the ongoing dispute.
According to sources, President Trump now wants to hold direct discussions with Prime Minister Modi to end the tariff standoff. It is being speculated that PM Modi will attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York and, on the sidelines, meet with the US President. The UNGA summit is scheduled to take place in New York City from September 23, bringing together leaders from across the world.
Following the UNGA session, PM Modi’s meeting with President Trump is also being considered likely, although there has been no official confirmation yet. Sources indicate that during his visit, the Indian Prime Minister will also hold high-level meetings with other global leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Reports further claim that President Trump wants PM Modi to visit the US before any other engagement to discuss bilateral issues. This means the Prime Minister’s visit to New York could serve a dual purpose: participating in the UNGA and holding talks with Trump. If all goes as planned, PM Modi may also extend a formal personal invitation to the US President to attend the upcoming Quad Summit in India. This year, India is hosting the Quad Summit, and it is expected to take place in October. Should Trump accept the invitation, he would visit India for the event.
The possible meeting comes at a time when India-US relations are under significant strain. Trade tensions have escalated after President Trump imposed a 50% tariff on certain Indian goods. So far, India has not taken any steps towards negotiations on the matter and has openly opposed the tariff move.
One of the biggest hurdles in the India-US trade agreement has been the demand from the US to open the Indian agricultural and dairy sectors to American markets, something India has resisted strongly. This refusal reportedly frustrated President Trump, who responded not only with the 50% tariff but also by announcing an additional 25% tariff on India’s oil imports from Russia.
India has been a long-term buyer of Russian oil and ranks as the second-largest purchaser after China. Despite China buying more Russian oil, Trump has not taken any strict action against Beijing and instead granted it a 90-day exemption on tariffs. This has further fueled tensions between Washington and New Delhi.
With these issues looming large, all eyes are now on the potential Modi-Trump meeting in New York. Observers are keen to see whether this high-profile interaction will bring any positive developments for India in the ongoing tariff dispute.
Disclaimer:
This news article is based on information from media reports and unnamed sources. Details regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s potential visit to the United States and his meeting with President Donald Trump have not been officially confirmed. Developments and schedules are subject to change based on official announcements.
