Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the White House later this month in what many see as a strategic move to keep India out of the crosshairs of President Donald Trump. With the unpredictable nature of Trump’s foreign policy decisions and his penchant for calling out countries on trade and security issues, Modi is likely hoping that a face-to-face meeting with the US President will help solidify India’s position as a key ally in the region.
Since taking office, Trump has not been shy about criticizing countries like China, Mexico, and even long-standing US allies in Europe. India, with its growing economy and strategic importance in the Asia-Pacific region, has so far managed to stay off Trump’s radar. However, with the President’s unpredictable behavior and tendency to shift alliances, Modi is keen to ensure that India remains in Trump’s good graces.
During his visit to Washington, Modi is expected to discuss a range of issues with Trump, including trade relations, security cooperation, and regional stability. India and the US have a strong economic partnership, with trade between the two countries reaching over $100 billion in recent years. Modi will likely seek to strengthen this relationship and address any concerns Trump may have regarding trade imbalances or market access.
In terms of security cooperation, India and the US have been working closely on counter-terrorism efforts and military cooperation. Modi will likely emphasize India’s role as a key partner in the fight against terrorism and highlight the importance of continued collaboration in this area. With the rise of extremist groups in the region, such as ISIS and Al-Qaeda, both countries have a shared interest in maintaining stability and security in South Asia.
Additionally, Modi may seek to address concerns about US policies in the region, such as the recent decision to withdraw troops from Afghanistan. India has a vested interest in the stability of Afghanistan and may push for continued US involvement in the region to prevent a power vacuum that could be exploited by extremist groups.
Overall, Modi’s visit to the White House is seen as a critical opportunity to strengthen ties with the US and ensure that India remains a key player in the region. By engaging with Trump directly, Modi hopes to keep India out of the President’s sights and solidify its position as a key ally in the Asia-Pacific region. Only time will tell if this strategy pays off, but for now, all eyes will be on the upcoming meeting between Modi and Trump.