Indian Prime Minister Modi Visits United States Amid Trade Tensions

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Washington on Wednesday. He aims to avoid American tariffs on Indian goods. This is ahead of a meeting with President Donald Trump.

Modi said he wants to build on the friendly relationship with Trump. He is ready to address the $45.7 billion trade deficit. He plans to buy more American energy and defense equipment.

Modi will also talk about cutting tariffs on American products. This includes whisky, pecans, electronics, and medical equipment. He will highlight last week’s duty cuts on Harley Davidson motorcycles.

India is open to discussing a mini-trade agreement with the U.S. This is to ease market access concerns.

Illegal migration from India to the U.S. will also be discussed. Modi has shown a willingness to cooperate on deportations. This has sparked public debate in India.

A U.S. military aircraft brought 104 Indians back to India on Thursday. This disrupted business in parliament. MPs protested against the treatment of the migrants, who were shackled.

Modi hopes to persuade Trump to increase the H-1B skilled worker visa program. This would benefit many Indians working in Silicon Valley and the tech sector.

India has avoided tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico. But, as a major steel producer, it will face a 25% duty on steel imports. This was announced by Trump on Monday.

The Indian Steel Association expects a big drop in steel exports to the U.S. However, only 0.07% of India’s steel production goes to the U.S.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said Modi’s visit shows the importance of the India-U.S. partnership. It’s a key moment for both countries.