Modi hosts US VP JD Vance amid trade deal push, tariff concerns
U.S. Vice President JD Vance attends a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the residence of the U.S. Ambassador in Paris, France, February 11, 2025.PHOTO: REUTERS
US Vice President JD Vance arrived in India on Monday for a four-day visit that combines personal engagements with key diplomatic objectives, as Washington and New Delhi look to advance trade negotiations and deepen defense cooperation.
Vance met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of an effort to fast-track a bilateral trade deal within a 90-day window announced by President Donald Trump on April 9. The temporary pause on planned US tariff hikes for key partners, including India, has added urgency to the talks.
Though the visit includes personal stops—such as a tour of the Taj Mahal and attendance at a wedding in Jaipur—it comes at a strategically important time. The two leaders are expected to review progress made since Modi’s February meeting with Trump in Washington, with a focus on promoting fairness in trade and enhancing defense collaboration.
India had a $45.7 billion trade surplus with the US in 2024. Reports suggest that New Delhi is open to reducing tariffs on more than half of its American imports, which were valued at $41.8 billion last year. However, President Trump has frequently criticized India’s trade policies, labeling the country a “tariff abuser” and the “tariff king.”
While no formal agreements are expected during this trip, officials indicate the visit aims to lay the groundwork for future deals. Potential areas of cooperation include a defense partnership framework and joint production of US weapons systems such as Javelin anti-tank missiles and Stryker combat vehicles.
Analysts view Vance’s trip as an indication of India’s growing importance in the US Indo-Pacific strategy, particularly in the context of rising tensions with China.
“Vance is assuming a high-profile diplomatic role,” said Harsh Pant of the Observer Research Foundation. “His India trip carries weight.”
Adding a personal layer to the visit, Vance’s wife, Usha Vance, is of Indian origin. The trip is also seen as a precursor to President Trump’s anticipated visit to India later this year for the Quad summit, which includes the US, India, Japan, and Australia.