PM Modi in US: Tariffs, trade talks with Trump in focus; joint press conference scheduled

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived here on Wednesday for a two-day visit, during which he will hold high-stakes talks with US President Donald Trump, focusing on trade, energy, technology, and immigration.

The two leaders will address a joint press conference at 1710 ET on Thursday (3.30am IST, Friday), Reuters reported quoting the White House.

Modi last participated in a joint presser with former US President Joe Biden in 2023.

His visit comes amid growing trade tensions following Trump’s decision to impose a 25% tariff on global steel and aluminum imports, a move that could impact Indian exports.

The Indian stainless steel industry has expressed concern over the US tariffs and is expecting stainless steel to be a key area of discussion between PM Modi and President Trump.

"The imposition of further trade barriers would stifle growth, hamper job creation, and strain bilateral trade relations between two key global economies," said Rajamani Krishnamurti, President, Indian Stainless Steel Development Association (ISSDA).

Officials said both leaders may explore trade concessions to ease tensions and expand economic ties.

Ahead of his meeting with Trump, Modi met newly appointed US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and congratulated her on her confirmation. He is also expected to meet top American business leaders, including Tesla CEO Elon Musk, to discuss investment opportunities in India.

The two sides are likely to discuss Indo-Pacific security, counterterrorism cooperation, and potential civil nuclear agreements. India is reportedly looking at new avenues for small modular reactors (SMRs) as part of its energy strategy.

Modi’s visit also comes amid discussions on immigration, with Trump expected to press for India's cooperation in accepting deported undocumented immigrants. India, in turn, is likely to seek assurances on H-1B visa policies crucial to its IT workforce in the US.

During his visit, Modi is staying at Blair House, the US presidential guest residence. In a post on X, he said he looked forward to strengthening the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

Trump, who has hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and Jordan’s King Abdullah II in recent weeks, will be holding his first bilateral meeting with Modi since beginning his second term last month.

The visit is expected to culminate in a joint statement outlining the two nations' commitments to deepening cooperation across multiple sectors.