Fri Feb 14 06:51:04 UTC 2025: ## Modi and Trump Forge Deeper Ties in Washington Summit
**Washington D.C., February 14, 2025** – Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a two-day visit to Washington D.C. with U.S. President Donald Trump, resulting in a significant strengthening of bilateral ties. The leaders announced a series of major agreements covering defense, trade, and energy, showcasing a renewed commitment to a robust strategic partnership.
A key highlight was the agreement to significantly increase military sales to India, including paving the way for the sale of F-35 stealth fighters. President Trump stated that the U.S. will increase military sales to India by “many billions of dollars” this year and onward. A new ten-year framework for the U.S.-India Major Defense Partnership is also set to be signed. Furthermore, the U.S. will streamline defense trade through a review of the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
On the extradition front, President Trump announced the approval of Tahawwur Rana’s extradition to India to face justice for his alleged role in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. This follows a January Supreme Court decision rejecting Rana’s appeal.
The two nations also set an ambitious goal of reaching $500 billion in annual bilateral trade by 2030, aiming to complete the first phase of a trade agreement this year. While aiming for this expansion, President Trump affirmed that the U.S. would not hesitate to apply reciprocal tariffs if necessary. A deal was also struck to facilitate increased Indian imports of U.S. oil and gas, aiming to reduce the U.S. trade deficit. Additionally, the U.S. will support India’s full membership in the International Energy Agency. The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad).
Beyond trade and defense, Modi and Trump discussed cooperation in areas such as higher education, with plans for joint degree programs and the establishment of offshore campuses. They also agreed to strengthen law enforcement cooperation to combat organized crime.
Prime Minister Modi met with several key American officials, including National Security Advisor Michael Waltz and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, as well as business leaders like Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), and Vivek Ramaswamy. Modi highlighted discussions with Musk focusing on space, mobility, technology, and innovation, and India’s commitment to “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance”.
President Trump also welcomed Prime Minister Modi to the White House, signing the visitor’s book together. Modi’s visit followed his trip to France earlier in the week.
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