Modi's Mission Rekindling the Bromance with Trump

Title Modi's Mission Rekindling the Bromance with Trump

Washington D.C. — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a crucial visit to the United States, aimed at reviving his special bond with Donald Trump. Four years after their initial meeting, Modi seeks to prevent a repeat of Trump's frustration by offering tariff concessions and demonstrating cooperation on key issues.

For nearly three decades, US presidents from both parties have prioritized building ties with India, recognizing the country as a natural partner against rising China. However, Trump has been vocal about his frustrations with Indian trade policies, labeling it the biggest tariff abuser. Modi's visit comes at a critical juncture, as Trump has recently weaponized tariffs against friends and foes.

To set a positive tone for their meeting, India has taken steps to address US concerns. The government has slashed duties on high-end motorcycles, giving Harley-Davidson, an iconic American company, a boost in the Indian market. This move is expected to curry favor with Trump, who has been vocal about the struggles of this American brand in motorbike-loving India.

Lisa Curtis, former National Security Council director on South Asia during Trump's first term, believes that Modi has prepared well for this visit. He has done his groundwork and has already taken positive steps to set a good tone, she said. Modi is seeking to preempt any potential anger from Trump by demonstrating cooperation and making concessions.

The Indian government has also obliged Trump on one of his top priorities deporting undocumented immigrants. India is the third source of undocumented immigrants in the US, after Mexico and El Salvador. Modi's Hindu-nationalist government has promised cooperation with Trump on this issue, despite criticism from opposition parties.

Modi's visit to Washington comes at a time when India seeks to rebuild its relationship with the US. During his first term, Modi assiduously courted Trump, sharing commonalities such as their majority community-centric campaigns and shifting democratic norms by targeting critics. The two leaders have much in common, including a strong desire for national self-interest.

As Modi meets with Trump on Thursday, he hopes to recreate their bonhomie of the past. This could ensure that India avoids any negative trade-related actions or sanctions. Aparna Pande, a fellow at the Hudson Institute, notes that India remains one of the few countries that retains bipartisan support across the aisle in the US.

The visit also marks a significant departure from the Biden administration's approach to Modi. While Joe Biden kept building relations with Modi, including by elevating the Quad grouping, he occasionally offered gentle critiques on Modi's record on minority rights. The Trump administration is unlikely to resonate with these issues, as they are not a priority for Trump.

As Modi seeks to rekindle his bond with Trump, he faces challenges in rebuilding trust and cooperation. However, his visit offers an opportunity to revitalize the relationship and ensure that India remains a key partner in the US's strategic interests.

Keywords Narendra Modi, Donald Trump, India-US relations, tariff concessions, Harley-Davidson, undocumented immigrants, Quad summit, Joe Biden

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