Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to begin a crucial two-day visit to the United States on February 12, where he will hold high-level talks with US President Donald Trump. The visit, marking Modi’s first bilateral trip to Washington since Trump’s second term began, comes amid heightened discussions on a range of critical issues, including trade, immigration, defense, and energy security.
Though the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has yet to officially announce the specifics of the visit, sources familiar with the plans confirmed that Modi will travel to Washington DC following his visit to Paris for the AI Summit. Modi’s visit will make him one of the first world leaders to engage in face-to-face discussions with Trump in his second term, underscoring the importance of US-India relations.
Modi is expected to arrive in Washington DC on the evening of February 12, and stay in the US capital till February 14. On Feb 13, President Trump is likely to host dinner for PM Modi during this visit. He is expected to have other engagements both with American corporate leaders and with the Indian community.
Key Areas of Discussion: Immigration, Tariffs, and Defense Ties
One of the most pressing issues to be addressed during the talks is illegal immigration. The Trump administration has been vocal about curbing illegal immigration, which has become a cornerstone of his domestic agenda. Both nations are likely to discuss strategies for addressing the concerns of undocumented migrants, with India reportedly open to assisting with the return of illegal immigrants from the US. However, New Delhi is keen to ensure that such deportations do not disrupt established immigration channels, particularly for skilled professionals and students who contribute significantly to the US economy.
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India is also keen on addressing the impact of the US tariffs on key trading partners, a subject that has sparked tensions between Washington and several countries, including India. Modi’s visit is expected to include discussions on improving trade relations, ensuring that tariffs do not undermine India’s access to the US market, especially for key sectors such as technology and manufacturing.
On the defense front, both leaders are expected to discuss ways to enhance bilateral defense cooperation. This could include deepening collaboration within the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) framework, a strategic alliance that also includes Japan and Australia. The US and India have been working closely on defense and security issues, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, where both countries share concerns over China’s growing influence.
Energy security will also be a central topic. With India’s growing demand for energy, discussions may revolve around increasing energy cooperation, including renewable energy sources, nuclear power, and trade in oil and gas.
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Visa and H-1B Program: A Focus on Skilled Workers and Students
Another critical issue is the future of the H-1B visa program, which has long been a key gateway for Indian professionals, particularly in the IT sector, to work in the US. India has over 350,000 students in the US, many of whom pursue graduate studies in STEM fields, and a significant number of H-1B visa holders come from India. Modi’s government has raised concerns about potential disruptions to this program, as Trump’s administration has pushed for a crackdown on immigration policies.
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In January FinancialExpress.com had reported that External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar discussed these concerns with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, ensuring that both sides would collaborate to safeguard the interests of skilled professionals and students.
The visit will be seen as an opportunity for both leaders to solidify the growing strategic partnership between the US and India. The growing trade and defense ties, combined with shared interests in regional security, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, make this meeting crucial for both nations.
As Prime Minister Modi prepares to meet President Trump, all eyes will be on how both leaders navigate the complex and evolving challenges facing US-India relations in 2025 and beyond.