USA
Former US President Donald Trump revealed on Tuesday that he will meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week during the Prime Minister’s upcoming visit to the United States. Speaking at a campaign event in Michigan, Trump praised PM Modi, describing him as “fantastic,” and shared that the two leaders would reconnect during Modi’s stay. However, Trump did not elaborate on the specific details of the meeting.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in the United States from September 21 to 23 for a series of key engagements, including participating in the Quad Summit and addressing the United Nations General Assembly’s ‘Summit of the Future’. His visit comes as part of India’s efforts to strengthen its strategic and economic ties with global powers, particularly the US.
Agenda for PM Modi’s Visit
During his visit, PM Modi will take part in the fourth Quad Leaders’ Summit, which will be hosted by US President Joe Biden in Wilmington, Delaware. The summit brings together the leaders of India, the United States, Japan, and Australia, focusing on shared strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region. The Quad Summit continues to grow in significance, with the member nations working together on issues such as security, climate change, and technology.
In addition to the Quad Summit, PM Modi will address the ‘Summit of the Future’ at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Monday. The summit will explore the theme “Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow” and will bring together global leaders to discuss solutions to pressing challenges such as climate change, health crises, and sustainable development. Modi’s speech is expected to highlight India’s commitment to global leadership in these areas, as well as the country’s efforts to promote inclusive multilateralism.
PM Modi will also engage with the Indian community in New York on Sunday, a tradition in his international visits that showcases his strong connection with the Indian diaspora. These gatherings often serve as a platform for Modi to emphasize the cultural and economic contributions of Indian expatriates while reinforcing India’s growing influence on the global stage.
Bilateral and Business Engagements
The Prime Minister’s trip also includes meetings with prominent US business leaders and CEOs from leading companies in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, semiconductors, and biotechnology. These discussions aim to promote investment in India’s growing tech sector and bolster innovation-driven economic partnerships between the two nations.
In a statement, India’s Ministry of External Affairs noted that Modi’s interactions with the business community are expected to explore collaborations that can help both countries advance in critical technologies. His outreach to business leaders underscores India’s ambition to become a global hub for technological innovation and manufacturing.
Beyond the business meetings, PM Modi is expected to hold discussions with key thought leaders and stakeholders who play a role in strengthening the India-US bilateral relationship. These engagements will touch on geopolitical, economic, and cultural issues, highlighting the evolving partnership between the two democracies.
A Reunion with Trump
The planned meeting between Trump and Modi will mark the first time the two have met since February 2020, when the then-US President visited India. The two leaders share a history of public warmth, with Trump and Modi famously holding a joint rally, “Namaste Trump,” during that visit, where they addressed a massive crowd in Ahmedabad. Modi described that occasion as a “path-breaking” moment in strengthening US-India ties.
Trump’s recent announcement has generated significant interest, as his campaign for the 2024 US presidential election intensifies. While Trump did not share specifics of what the upcoming meeting will entail, it is seen as a continuation of the close relationship they forged during his presidency, when US-India relations grew across defense, trade, and strategic cooperation.
PM Modi’s visit is being closely watched by international observers as India positions itself as a global leader in areas such as technology, climate action, and economic growth. The meetings with Trump and other US leaders will likely contribute to furthering India’s ambitions on the global stage.
As the week approaches, more details about PM Modi’s schedule and the nature of his interactions with Trump and other leaders are expected to emerge.
