U.S. Vice President JD Vance met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Monday (21), focusing on strengthening bilateral ties and advancing trade negotiations to avoid potential U.S. tariffs.The leaders discussed the progress of a proposed trade deal, aiming to double bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030, which could significantly enhance economic and diplomatic relations.Modi's office highlighted "significant progress" in these discussions, emphasising a "mega partnership" between the two nations.
Vance's visit, occurring during a period of global trade uncertainty and amidst U.S.-China trade tensions, underscores India's strategic importance to the U.S. as a counterweight to China in the Indo-Pacific region. 

 

The two leaders also discussed cooperation in energy, defence, and strategic technologies, emphasising dialogue and diplomacy on regional and global issues. 

 

Vance's office stated that the trade deal aims to create jobs and enhance supply-chain integration in both countries.

The trade negotiations are particularly crucial for India, which faces potential impacts from U.S. tariffs on key sectors like agriculture and manufacturing. 

 

Former Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla noted that a Trump presidency could offer India opportunities to integrate further into U.S. markets and global supply chains. Modi's government is also actively seeking investment from companies like Tesla and SpaceX, with recent developments signaling potential progress in these areas.India's strategic partnership with the U.S. extends to defence, with increasing integration of advanced American military technology into India's armed forces. 

 

Both countries plan to sign a 10-year framework later this year to further strengthen their defence cooperation.Vance's visit, which included cultural engagements and family visits, also highlighted the multifaceted nature of the U.S.-India relationship.