Gustakhi Maaf Haryana-Pawan Kumar Bansal
By our enlightened reader Satish Mehra .Modi-Trump Meeting: Gains and Losses
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has returned to Delhi after completing his two-day state visit to the United States. This meeting between two of the world’s most powerful leaders is considered significant from political, diplomatic, trade, and strategic perspectives on an international level. This was Prime Minister Modi’s first meeting with Donald Trump since he assumed office for a second term as the U.S. President.
During their meeting at the White House, discussions covered a wide range of topics, including trade, tariffs, terrorism, war, and personal chemistry. Even before the meeting, President Trump had announced a “Reciprocal Tariff” policy, meaning that any country imposing tariffs on American goods would face equal tariffs on its exports to the U.S.
The meeting brought several good news for India. President Trump announced that the U.S. would provide India with F-35 fighter jets. He also declared that the U.S. would supply India with billions of dollars worth of military equipment starting this year. Additionally, Trump confirmed that the U.S. would extradite 2008 Mumbai attack terrorist Tahawwur Rana to India.
Both India and the U.S. agreed to expand cooperation in multiple areas. Investment in energy and infrastructure sectors will be increased, making the U.S. a major supplier of oil and gas to India. The two countries have set a target to more than double bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.
India and the U.S. will collaborate in artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, biotechnology, and quantum technology. An agreement was reached on the TRUST initiative, which stands for Transforming Relationship Utilizing Strategic Technology.
After the meeting with President Trump, PM Modi once again emphasized the importance of peace in times of war. He stated, “We are in favor of peace. Problems are not solved through war.” He fully supported President Trump’s peace initiatives. However, several decisions made during this meeting will have a significant impact on India, including issues related to BRICS and illegal immigration.
BRICS is Dead?
President Donald Trump has been openly critical of BRICS from the beginning. Frustrated by the prospect of BRICS launching a common currency, Trump stated that imposing a 100% tariff on BRICS nations would effectively end the alliance. He once again threatened to impose tariffs on BRICS countries. It is worth noting that BRICS consists of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
Crackdown on Illegal Immigration
Since taking office, President Trump has maintained a strict stance on illegal immigrants. This issue was also a key factor in his election victory. He has been deporting illegal immigrants from the U.S., and 104 illegal Indian immigrants have already been sent back to India. Trump raised this issue again during the meeting with PM Modi, who showed a positive approach and agreed to take back illegal Indian immigrants.
PM Modi stated, “People who live illegally in other countries have no legal right to stay there. We have always maintained that Indian citizens who are staying illegally in the U.S. should be brought back.”
Trump’s Stance on China
During their White House meeting, President Trump made significant remarks about China. He acknowledged China’s importance on the global stage and suggested that China could help mediate the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia.
On the issue of Bangladesh, Trump stated that there was no role of the “Deep State” and left the matter in PM Modi’s hands.
President Trump also addressed border clashes, offering India his assistance. He said, “These border clashes are very dangerous. If I can help, I would love to.” He expressed hope that China, India, Russia, and the U.S. could work together on global issues.
MAGA + MIGA = MEGA Partnership
Prime Minister Modi introduced the MAGA + MIGA formula for strengthening India-U.S. relations. He explained to Trump how “Make America Great Again” and “Make India Great Again” together form a “MEGA” partnership for development.
Key Concerns for India from Trump’s Statements
1. Threat to BRICS: Trump’s statement about imposing 100% tariffs on BRICS countries is a direct challenge. If implemented, this could lead to inflation in India and a reduction in interest rates.
2. Illegal Immigrants Issue: The U.S. may deport more illegal Indian immigrants in upcoming batches. Although no official statement has been made, a second batch is expected soon. The first batch of 104 deportees was sent back to India on February 5. The treatment of these deportees, including being sent back in handcuffs and shackles, has drawn criticism from Indian citizens and opposition parties, who called it inhumane.
3. China-India Border Tensions: Trump’s remark that India-China border clashes are “cruel” and his offer to mediate is a matter of concern for India. This statement has raised questions about the future of India-China relations. However, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has clarified that India will resolve its issues with neighboring countries through bilateral discussions.
The success or failure of the Modi-Trump meeting will ultimately be measured by its long-term impact on India-China relations, inflation in India, and how the U.S. government handles the deportation of more illegal Indian immigrants.