United News of Bangladesh

U.S. President Donald Trump has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the White House next week, a White House official confirmed. The invitation came just hours after a U.S. military plane departed with deported migrants bound for India. During a conversation on January 27, Trump and Modi discussed immigration, with the U.S. president emphasizing the need for India to purchase more American security equipment and ensure fair bilateral trade. As a key U.S. partner in countering China’s influence, India aims to strengthen trade ties with Washington while seeking easier access to skilled worker visas. India’s budget focuses on tax cuts for middle class, agriculture Besides, India hopes to avoid potential tariffs, which Trump has previously threatened due to what he calls India's high import duties on American goods. The United States is India's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding $118 billion in 2023/24. India recorded a $32 billion trade surplus during this period.

US President Donald Trump has expressed confidence that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will take appropriate steps regarding Indian immigrants residing in the United States illegally. The remarks came after a "productive" phone call between the two leaders on Monday, during which they discussed bilateral cooperation, security, and trade. Addressing reporters aboard Air Force One, President Trump revealed that Prime Minister Modi is expected to visit the United States next month, likely in February. "I had a long talk with him this morning. He is going to be coming to the White House next month. We have a very good relationship with India," Trump stated. A federal judge temporarily blocks Trump’s executive order redefining birthright citizenship The leaders' discussion included contentious immigration issues, with Trump underscoring the need for India to repatriate its nationals who have overstayed their visas or entered the US illegally. He expressed optimism about the matter, saying, "Prime Minister Modi will do what's right." Growing Trade and Strategic Ties The White House characterised the call as focusing on expanding trade ties and defence cooperation. Trump urged India to increase its purchase of American-made security equipment and work towards a "fair" bilateral trading relationship. Trade between the two nations exceeded $118 billion in the 2023/24 financial year, with India enjoying a $32 billion surplus. Despite their strong partnership, Trump previously criticised India as a "very big abuser" of trade during his re-election campaign and vowed to address the imbalance through tariffs. India’s strategic importance as a partner in countering China was also highlighted in the conversation. Prime Minister Modi called Trump a "dear friend" in a social media post, reaffirming their commitment to a "mutually beneficial and trusted partnership." Tackling Irregular Migration The immigration issue comes in the wake of reports suggesting that the US and India have identified approximately 18,000 Indian nationals living illegally in America. Trump, who has pledged to tackle irregular migration, indicated that his administration remains open to skilled legal migration. Indian IT professionals, a key source of H-1B visa holders, play a significant role in the US technology sector. Last week, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, discussing irregular migration among other issues. Strengthening Quad Partnership The phone call also underscored the importance of the Quad partnership, which includes the US, India, Japan, and Australia. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to the grouping, with India set to host the Quad leaders’ summit later this year. Trump's mass deportation plan could overwhelm U.S. Immigrant Detention System An Indian government statement highlighted discussions on technology, trade, energy, and defence. Both sides agreed to remain in touch and plan an early meeting. Future Prospects Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit to the US is expected to further solidify the bilateral relationship. Amid ongoing negotiations on trade and immigration, the visit will likely provide a platform to address mutual concerns and explore new avenues for collaboration. As the US and India navigate their partnership, the resolution of immigration issues and trade imbalances will remain pivotal in shaping the trajectory of their relationship.