PM Modi Landed In US Warm Welcome by Indian Diaspora, Ahead Of Meeting With President Donald Trump
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has landed in Washington DC for a significant two-day visit to the United States, where he received a heartfelt welcome from the Indian diaspora. Despite the chilly, rainy weather, thousands gathered at Joint Base Andrews to catch a glimpse of their leader, highlighting the strong bond between Modi and the Indian-American community.
Modi’s stay at the Blair House, the official guesthouse of the US President, was marked by displays of the Indian tricolor, symbolizing the high regard for this visit. The excitement was palpable, as one member of the diaspora exclaimed, “Indian-American diaspora is here to welcome PM Modi. We are so excited.”
This visit is particularly notable as it is one of the first high-level engagements since Donald Trump’s return to the White House for his second term. The agenda for the Modi-Trump meeting includes crucial discussions on trade, bilateral ties, and regional developments, with a special focus on the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, as well as the strategic role of Quad in countering China’s influence.
Trade talks are expected to dominate the conversation, especially with Trump’s recent commitment to introducing “reciprocal tariffs.” This policy could have significant implications for India, which has so far been spared from new US tariffs. The White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, hinted that these tariff announcements might precede Modi’s meeting with Trump, setting the stage for intense negotiations.
Moreover, Modi’s visit isn’t just about politics and economics; it’s also about fostering technological partnerships. A meeting with Elon Musk, who heads companies like X, Tesla, and SpaceX, is on the cards. Discussions are likely to revolve around expanding Musk’s Starlink service into India, aiming to enhance digital connectivity across the nation.
Before arriving in the US, Modi co-chaired an AI Action Summit in Paris with French President Emmanuel Macron, showcasing India’s commitment to leading in global tech innovation. This visit to France also included a light-hearted moment where Modi met with US Vice President JD Vance and his family, celebrating a birthday, underlining the personal connections that often play a role in international diplomacy.
