New Delhi, India – United States Vice-President JD Vance is set to embark on a four-day visit to India next week to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi for discussions on economic, trade, and geopolitical ties as the two countries negotiate a bilateral trade deal. The meeting is scheduled for 21 April, marking Vance’s first visit to India since assuming office. Accompanied by his wife Usha Vance and their children, Vance’s visit comes at a crucial time as the US and India aim to finalize a trade agreement by fall.
The visit holds significance amidst escalating trade tensions between the US and China, with President Donald Trump imposing hefty tariffs on Chinese goods. In response, China retaliated with tariffs on US products. India also faced US tariffs earlier this month, prompting both countries to speed up trade negotiations. With India already making tariff cuts and contemplating further reductions to appease Trump’s demands, the focus of Vance’s visit is likely to center around enhancing economic cooperation and trade relations between the two nations.
Prime Minister Modi’s February visit to the US saw the announcement of a “mega partnership” and a commitment to increase bilateral trade to $500bn. Vance’s upcoming meeting with Modi underscores the shared commitment to strengthen ties and foster a robust trade relationship. India and the US, both key members of the Quad alliance along with Australia and Japan, have been actively working towards countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
As Vance’s visit to India looms, following a prior stop in Italy, it underscores the US administration’s proactive stance in engaging with key allies and partners around the world. With diplomatic relations playing a pivotal role in shaping global dynamics, Vance’s interactions with Indian leaders are expected to set the tone for future collaborations between the two nations. Stay updated for more developments on this high-profile visit on various social media platforms.