The talks during Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump’s meeting on Friday (IST) focused on enhancing economic ties, defence cooperation, counter-terrorism efforts, space exploration, and broader international issues.

Below are the key takeaways from their meeting:

Bilateral Trade Target: $500 Billion by 2030

The most important outcome from the talks was the ambitious target set by India and the US to double bilateral trade, aiming for $500 billion by 2030. Prime Minister Modi stressed the importance of concluding a mutually beneficial trade agreement soon, as this would help to reinforce the strong economic ties between the two nations. Both sides committed to expanding cooperation in a range of sectors, with trade being a central focus.

A Strong Counter-Terrorism Commitment: Extradition of Tahawwur Rana:

In a major counter-terrorism move, President Trump announced the approval of the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a key suspect in the 2008 Mumbai attacks. This marks a significant step in the US-India fight against terrorism and highlights the growing security collaboration between the two countries.

F-35 Fighter Jets to India

President Trump confirmed that the US would provide F-35 stealth fighter jets to India, a historic move that places India among an elite group of nations’ such as NATO allies, Israel, and Japan that can purchase this advanced aircraft. This announcement comes at a time when F-35 fighter jet was doing maneuverers in the Bangalore skies during the Aero India 2025, and this underscores the increasing military collaboration between the two countries. The US is also set to sell more military platforms as well as co-produce.

Energy Security and Civil Nuclear Cooperation

The US and India reaffirmed their commitment to the US-India Energy Security Partnership, which includes cooperation in oil, gas, and civil nuclear energy. The two countries are working to fully implement the US-India 123 Civil Nuclear Agreement, focusing on building US-designed nuclear reactors in India, including the development of advanced small modular reactors.

These efforts are expected to boost energy security and pave the way for increased technology transfer between the nations.

Space Exploration Collaboration

The leaders also discussed expanding their civil space cooperation. With the goal of sending the first Indian astronaut to the International Space Station (ISS) by 2025, the US and India will work together on key space missions, including the joint NISAR mission, aimed at mapping Earth’s surface using dual radar technology. Additionally, both sides are exploring further cooperation in space tourism, satellite systems, and advanced space manufacturing.

Indo-China Border Tensions

President Trump acknowledged the ongoing India-China border tensions and expressed a willingness to help mediate if needed. He referred to the skirmishes as ‘quite vicious’ and repeated his desire to assist in resolving the conflict.

Russia-Ukraine War: India’s Position on Peace

Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s position on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution through dialogue. Modi clarified that India is not neutral but firmly on the side of peace. The leaders discussed the international implications of the war and the importance of diplomatic efforts to end the violence.

Immigration

In addition to strategic and economic cooperation, the two leaders recognized the importance of people-to-people ties. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the role of 300,000 Indian students in the US, contributing over $8 billion annually to the American economy. Both sides agreed on initiatives to streamline legal mobility for students and professionals and to address illegal immigration and human trafficking concerns.

US Support for India’s membership in the International Energy Agency

In a significant move to strengthen India’s energy security, the US expressed its support for India’s membership in the International Energy Agency (IEA), allowing India to take a more active role in global energy discussions.

Focus on Quad

Prime Minister Modi invited President Trump to the upcoming Quad Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi. The Quad partnership, comprising India, the US, Japan, and Australia, will focus on shared initiatives such as disaster response airlift capacity and maritime patrols to improve regional security and interoperability. The leaders also discussed broader multilateral initiatives, including the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor and the I2U2 Group, which aims to foster greater collaboration in trade, defence, and energy.

Terrorism and Regional Security Concerns

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to counter-terrorism efforts. The US specifically condemned terrorism emanating from Pakistan and repeated the need to bring perpetrators of attacks like 26/11 and Pathankot to justice.