Tue Apr 22 01:40:00 UTC 2025: **India and U.S. Make Progress on Bilateral Trade Agreement**

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance met in New Delhi on Monday, April 21, 2025, to discuss progress on a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) and broader cooperation between the two nations. The meeting, attended by senior officials from both sides, resulted in the formal announcement of finalized terms of reference for BTA negotiations, with further talks scheduled in Washington D.C. this week.

While the specifics of the BTA remain under negotiation, including contentious issues such as agricultural market access and India’s digital services tax, both sides expressed optimism about creating new opportunities for workers, farmers, and entrepreneurs. The agreement is expected to include reduced or zero tariffs in several areas, with a “first tranche” of the pact anticipated for finalization during President Trump’s upcoming visit to India later this year for the Quad Summit.

The meeting also addressed broader aspects of the India-U.S. roadmap, aligning with President Trump’s “Make America Great Again” initiative and India’s “Viksit Bharat (Developed India) 2047” vision. Areas of continued cooperation include energy, defense, and strategic technologies. While the official statements didn’t detail discussions on potentially sensitive topics such as U.S. tariffs or student visa restrictions, the leaders affirmed their commitment to dialogue and diplomacy on regional and global issues.

Vice President Vance’s visit included cultural engagements, temple visits, and shopping, alongside his family. Despite the unexpected passing of Pope Francis earlier in the day, the schedule proceeded as planned. Vance’s family is spending additional time in Jaipur and Agra before their departure on Thursday. There are unconfirmed reports that the family will attend a wedding in Jaipur.

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