Fri Feb 14 12:54:13 UTC 2025: ## Trump and Modi Announce Major Economic and Security Partnership

**Washington D.C.** – In a surprise White House meeting, US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a sweeping new bilateral partnership, dubbed COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology for the 21st Century), aimed at boosting cooperation in defense, trade, energy, and technology. The initiative includes “Mission 500,” a target to increase bilateral trade to $500 billion within five years – a fourfold increase from the current $129 billion.

A second initiative, TRUST (Transforming the Relationship Utilizing Strategic Technology), focuses on collaboration in critical and emerging technologies, including a joint AI roadmap to be finalized by year’s end. Other key announcements included enhanced defense cooperation, expanded energy partnerships, strengthened people-to-people ties, and a commitment to a more liberal extradition regime. President Trump specifically confirmed the approval of the extradition of 26/11 convict Tahawwur Rana to India, signaling a potential shift in handling similar cases.

The meeting, described as highly productive by both leaders, also touched on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. While praising Trump’s recent calls with Presidents Putin and Zelenskyy, Modi reiterated India’s stance of supporting peace and not neutrality in the conflict. Trump’s engagement with Putin was noted as potentially leading to global price stability and a realignment of global forces, potentially countering China’s ambitions. The two leaders’ strong personal rapport was evident throughout the meeting and press conference, with Trump praising Modi’s negotiating skills. The partnership, analysts suggest, signals a significant step forward for both nations amidst significant domestic transformations.

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