Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump have personally stepped in to push forward the much-awaited India–US trade deal, signaling a renewed phase of high-level engagement between the two nations.
Responding within hours to President Trump’s post on Truth Social, PM Modi expressed confidence that bilateral trade negotiations would “pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the India–US partnership.”
“India and the US are close friends and natural partners. I am confident that our trade negotiations will pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the India–US partnership. Our teams are working to conclude these discussions at the earliest. I am also looking forward to speaking with President Trump. We will work together to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for both our people,”
— PM Narendra Modi, via X
High-Level Engagement
According to authoritative sources, a high-powered Indian delegation led by Rajesh Agarwal, India’s chief trade negotiator and special secretary, will travel to Washington next week to resume formal trade discussions.
While the exact dates are still being finalised, officials in both capitals have been in constant touch, with “telephone lines burning” to put negotiations back on track.
President Trump confirmed that he is also expected to hold a direct conversation with PM Modi in the coming weeks.
“I am pleased to announce that India and the US are continuing negotiations to address the trade barriers between our two nations. I look forward to speaking with my very good friend, PM Modi, in the upcoming weeks. I feel certain that there will be no difficulty in coming to a successful conclusion for both of our great countries,”
— President Donald Trump, via Truth Social
Beyond Trade: Defence & Strategic Cooperation
Alongside trade talks, the two countries are preparing for significant defence and technology deals:
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Six P8I anti-submarine warfare aircraft, worth nearly $3 billion, will be taken up by a US delegation visiting India on September 17–18.
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A deal to purchase 113 GE-404 fighter aircraft engines for the Tejas Mark 1A jets is expected to be signed this month.
Significance
The renewed push shows that both leaders are prioritising the broader India–US strategic partnership, despite occasional tensions and critical statements from some US officials. The development also comes ahead of the forthcoming Quad Summit, where a united front on trade, technology, and security will be a key focus.
