KKN Gurugram Desk | US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a “productive” phone conversation on Monday, focusing on key issues including immigration, trade, and security cooperation. This marked the first conversation between the two leaders since President Trump began his second term on January 20. The discussion emphasized strengthening the India-US bilateral relationship, addressing critical global challenges, and resolving contentious issues like illegal immigration.

Here’s everything you need to know about the call and its implications for India-US relations.

A High-Profile Dialogue: Strengthening Bilateral Ties

During the phone call, President Trump confirmed that PM Modi is expected to visit the United States in February 2025. He emphasized the positive relationship between the two leaders, which has been instrumental in advancing cooperation in several strategic areas. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump stated:
“I had a long talk with him this morning. He is going to be coming to the White House next month, probably in February. We have a very good relationship with India.”

The dialogue comes amidst reports suggesting that both sides are working toward scheduling an early meeting to maintain momentum in the partnership. Over the years, India and the US have shared close ties, particularly in areas of trade, defense, and technology.

Immigration: A Key Focus

One of the key points discussed during the call was immigration, particularly regarding the issue of illegal Indian immigrants in the US. President Trump highlighted that PM Modi is committed to addressing the situation and “will do what’s right” by taking back Indian citizens who entered the US illegally.

Reports suggest that the US has identified approximately 18,000 illegal Indian immigrants. While Trump’s administration remains strict on illegal immigration, he has expressed openness to legal migration of skilled workers, particularly in the IT sector. Indian IT professionals continue to dominate the skilled worker category under H-1B visas, a critical program for India’s workforce in the US.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in a recent meeting with Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, emphasized resolving concerns related to irregular migration. The cooperation on immigration reflects an effort to streamline migration policies while retaining India’s skilled workforce, which is vital to the US economy.

Trade and Economic Cooperation

Trade was another significant topic during the conversation. President Trump stressed the importance of India increasing its procurement of American-made security equipment and striving for a balanced bilateral trade relationship. The US-India trade relationship has grown substantially, with two-way trade surpassing $118 billion in 2023-24, although India maintains a surplus of $32 billion.

Despite the growing partnership, tensions over trade policies have occasionally surfaced. During his campaign, Trump had criticized India as a “very big abuser” of trade practices and threatened tariffs on BRICS nations, including India, if they moved forward with plans for a new global currency. However, the call indicated a shift toward collaboration rather than confrontation.

Prime Minister Modi called Trump a “dear friend” on social media, emphasizing the commitment to a “mutually beneficial and trusted partnership.” Modi added, “We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity, and security.”

The Indian government issued a statement noting that discussions covered technology, trade, investment, energy, and defense. Both leaders agreed to remain in touch and meet soon at a mutually convenient time.

Strategic Partnership and Security

India and the US share a strong strategic partnership, particularly in countering China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to Quad, a security grouping that includes the US, India, Australia, and Japan. India is set to host a Quad leaders’ summit later this year, further strengthening the alliance.

The leaders also discussed global security issues in regions like the Middle East and Europe. India’s role as a key strategic partner aligns with the US efforts to maintain peace and stability in these regions.

Key Takeaways from the Call

1. Immigration Commitments:
   • India to take back approximately 18,000 illegal immigrants identified by the US.
   • Emphasis on legal migration, especially for skilled workers in the IT sector.
2. Trade and Economic Growth:
   • Two-way trade reached $118 billion in 2023-24, with discussions on reducing trade imbalances.
   • Focus on India procuring American-made security equipment.
3. Defense and Strategic Cooperation:
   • Strong reaffirmation of the Quad partnership, with India hosting Quad leaders in 2025.
   • Commitment to strengthening security in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe.
4. Upcoming Bilateral Meeting:
   • PM Modi’s scheduled visit to the US in February 2025 is expected to further deepen ties.

Impact on India-US Relations

The India-US partnership has emerged as one of the most significant bilateral relationships in the 21st century. From countering China’s influence in Asia to collaborating on global challenges like climate change and technology, the two nations are increasingly aligned on key issues.

The focus on immigration demonstrates mutual efforts to address sensitive concerns while maintaining a strong workforce exchange through H-1B visas. Meanwhile, the emphasis on trade and defense cooperation reflects both countries’ shared interests in economic growth and regional security.

Trump’s second term may bring its own challenges, particularly with trade policies and tariff threats, but the positive tone of the recent dialogue suggests that collaboration will take precedence over conflict.

The phone call between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlights the enduring strength of the India-US relationship. From addressing immigration challenges to expanding trade and enhancing security cooperation, the conversation signals a shared commitment to resolving contentious issues and advancing mutual interests.

As PM Modi prepares to visit the US in February, the meeting is expected to pave the way for even greater cooperation between the two nations. Stay tuned to KKN Live for the latest updates on this evolving partnership and other global developments.