In their first official interaction since Donald Trump’s re-election, the US President and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed bolstering bilateral relations in a phone call on Monday. According to a White House statement, Trump emphasized the need for India to increase its purchase of American security equipment and to work towards establishing a balanced and fair-trade relationship with the United States.
The White House described the conversation as “productive,” with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to a robust partnership. They also discussed plans for Modi to visit the White House, underscoring the strength of the friendship and strategic ties between the two nations.
US Pushes for Greater Defence Procurement
A notable divergence between the two statements is the emphasis on defence ties. While the Indian readout broadly addressed advancing defence cooperation, the US statement explicitly urged India to increase procurement of American-made security equipment.
India’s defence acquisitions from the US have grown significantly over the past two decades, exemplified by a recent $3 billion Predator drone deal. However, American officials remain concerned about India’s strong defence ties with Russia and its purchases from non-US partners like France and Israel. Additionally, Washington has expressed frustration over India’s push for “Make in India” initiatives, which often prioritize local manufacturing and co-production requirements. The White House statement hinted that increased defence purchases from the US could be a prerequisite for deepening security collaboration, including joint production projects.
“The President emphasized the importance of India increasing its procurement of American-made security equipment and moving toward a fair bilateral trading relationship,” reads the White House release.
Indo-Pacific and Quad Partnership
The Indo-Pacific region was a focal point of the US readout, with references to regional security and the Quad partnership. The White House highlighted the leaders’ commitment to advancing the strategic partnership and noted India’s upcoming role as host of the Quad Leaders’ Summit.
India’s readout, however, omitted mentions of the Indo-Pacific or Quad, focusing instead on broader commitments to promoting “global peace, prosperity, and security.” The omission contrasts with India’s active participation in the Quad framework, as evidenced by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s recent attendance at a Quad foreign ministers meeting alongside his US, Australian, and Japanese counterparts.
Strengthening Strategic Cooperation
Both leaders expressed a shared vision for expanding cooperation across key areas, including security, trade, energy, and technology. The discussions also touched on regional and global security issues, with the White House highlighting topics such as the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and Europe. India’s statement similarly referred to advancing a “trusted partnership” and exchanging views on global matters, including Ukraine and West Asia.
Modi’s Potential Visit to Washington
Speculation is rife that Modi may visit Washington after attending an Artificial Intelligence (AI) summit in Paris in mid-February. While no official confirmation has been provided, the White House’s statement signals that preparations for a meeting may be underway. India’s official readout noted that the leaders agreed to meet at a mutually convenient date, leaving the timeline open.
Following the call, Modi expressed his enthusiasm on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“Delighted to speak with my dear friend President @realDonaldTrump @POTUS. Congratulated him on his historic second term. We are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership. We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity, and security.”
Delighted to speak with my dear friend President @realDonaldTrump @POTUS. Congratulated him on his historic second term. We are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership. We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity,…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 27, 2025
Team BharatShakti
