New Delhi, India – U.S. Vice President JD Vance embarked on a four-day visit to India on Monday, seeking to bolster trade negotiations, strengthen diplomatic relations, and avoid potential U.S. tariffs. Upon his arrival, Vance met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the ambitious goal of more than doubling bilateral trade between the two countries to $500 billion by 2030.
The visit of Vance comes at a crucial time as the U.S. has temporarily halted its tariff program against various countries, including India. In addition, tensions are rising in the trade war between the U.S. and China, India’s main regional competitor.
India’s Foreign Ministry announced that Vance and Modi would review the progress in bilateral relations and exchange views on regional and global developments. The visit is expected to further solidify the comprehensive global strategic partnership between India and the U.S.
Vance’s trip to India is a mix of business and pleasure, as he is accompanied by his wife, a practicing Hindu with roots in India, and their three children. The family visited cultural sites, including the Akshardham Hindu temple, the iconic Taj Mahal monument, and the UNESCO world heritage site Amer Fort.
As India plays a crucial role in counterbalancing Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific region, its partnership with the U.S. is seen as vital. The Quad, consisting of the U.S., India, Japan, and Australia, aims to counter China’s expansion, with Trump expected to attend a summit of Quad leaders in India later this year.
Trade negotiations between India and the U.S. have become urgent, with India looking to avoid potential tariffs imposed by Trump, particularly in various industries such as agriculture, processed food, and defense equipment. The visit holds significance in a time of global trade upheavals, with opportunities for enhanced technology-sharing and defense cooperation under Trump’s presidency.
India’s government is also working to attract investment from prominent figures like Elon Musk, who has shown interest in expanding his ventures in India. With the potential for increased partnerships and investments, India aims to strengthen its ties with the U.S. in various fields, including defense and technology.