Modi-Trump Meeting Sets Ambitious Path for India-US Relations

The visit highlighted deepening defense, trade, and technology ties but underscored challenges in navigating US demands and domestic resistance.

Prime Minister Modi's preemptive visit to Washington aimed to establish early momentum in India-US relations during President Trump's second term.
A joint statement outlined plans for deeper defense collaboration, including co-production of advanced systems and potential discussions on acquiring fifth-generation fighter jets like the F-35.
The leaders announced the 'US-India COMPACT' initiative, targeting transformative cooperation in defense, trade, and technology, with a goal to double bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.
India and the US committed to advancing critical mineral partnerships, semiconductor supply chains, and AI infrastructure through rebranded initiatives like TRUST and INDUS Innovation.
Challenges remain, including US pressure on trade liberalization, defense acquisitions, and balancing domestic resistance with the need for strategic alignment.