Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held talks on Thursday at the White House, unveiling a series of measures to strengthen bilateral ties. The meeting focused on defense cooperation, energy trade, and counterterrorism efforts, amid ongoing trade tensions.
One major outcome was Trump’s confirmation of the US approving the extradition of Tahawwur Rana to India. Rana, a key figure in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, is currently detained in Los Angeles. Trump called him “very evil,” while Modi expressed gratitude for this decisive step in the fight against terrorism.
The two leaders also announced plans for India to acquire advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets from the US. Trump stated that India would increase its defense purchases by billions of dollars, deepening strategic cooperation in areas like military technology and connectivity.
In energy trade, Modi and Trump agreed to make the US a top supplier of oil and gas to India. Trump pointed out India’s high tariffs on American goods as a “major issue” and revealed that Modi had pledged tariff reductions. Trump emphasized the US would now adopt reciprocal tariffs, matching whatever India imposes on American imports.
Addressing terrorism, Modi affirmed India and the US would continue standing “firmly together” to combat cross-border terrorism. Both leaders highlighted the need for decisive action against radical extremism.
This meeting marked a significant step in bilateral relations, with Modi reaffirming India’s goal to double trade with the US by 2030 and describing the talks as “excellent.”
