Modi and Elon Musk discuss tech ties amid Trump tariff threats

PM Narendra Modi meets Elon Musk in Washington to discuss tech collaboration, focusing on space exploration


News Desk February 14, 2025
Photo: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Tesla chief Elon Musk at Blair House in Washington DC/@prem_thakker on X

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has met Tesla CEO Elon Musk at Blair House in Washington, DC, on Thursday during his two-day visit to the US

The meeting focused on strengthening the technological partnership between India and the United States, particularly in areas such as space exploration, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development.

Photo: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Tesla chief Elon Musk at Blair House in Washington DC/@prem_thakker on X

Photo: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Tesla chief Elon Musk at Blair House in Washington DC/@prem_thakker on X

Musk, who was accompanied by three of his children, including his son X, presented PM Modi with a Starship hexagonal heatshield tile as a gift.

Discussions also touched on the pending approval of Starlink’s license in India, with Musk seeking regulatory clearance for his satellite internet service to operate in the country.

The meeting followed Musk's discussions with US National Security Advisor Michael Waltz. PM Modi was joined by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

In a post on X, PM Modi expressed his pleasure at meeting Musk and his family, adding that the meeting covered a wide range of topics, including technological innovation and governance.

Photo: @narendramodi on X

Photo: @narendramodi on X

The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) stated that the leaders discussed opportunities to enhance collaboration between Indian and US entities in emerging technologies and entrepreneurship.

PM Modi’s visit to the US comes amid growing tensions over potential tariff impositions. US President Donald Trump has threatened tariffs on countries he claims are damaging the US economy, naming India, China, and Brazil as potential targets.

The bilateral talks between Modi and Trump are expected to address these concerns, though the full agenda remains undisclosed.

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