PM Modi’s Landmark Visit to Washington D.C.: Strengthening Ties with the U.S.

Arrival in Washington D.C.

On February 12, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Washington D.C. for a two-day visit, marking his first official engagement with President Donald Trump since the latter’s re-election. Upon landing, Modi expressed his enthusiasm on social media, stating, “Landed in Washington DC a short while ago. Looking forward to meeting @POTUS Donald Trump and building upon the India-USA Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Our nations will keep working closely for the benefit of our people and for a better future for our planet.”

Meeting with U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard

Shortly after his arrival, Prime Minister Modi met with U.S. Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard, who had been confirmed in her role earlier that day. Modi congratulated Gabbard on her appointment and discussed various aspects of the India-U.S. partnership. He later shared details of the meeting on social media, stating, “Met USA’s Director of National Intelligence, @TulsiGabbard in Washington DC. Congratulated her on her confirmation. Discussed various aspects of the India-USA friendship, of which she’s always been a strong votary.”

Their discussions focused on strengthening bilateral intelligence cooperation, emphasizing counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, emerging threats, and strategic intelligence sharing. They also exchanged perspectives on regional and global developments of mutual interest, reaffirming their commitment to a secure, stable, and rules-based international order.

Warm Reception by the Indian-American Community

Upon his arrival at the President’s Guest House, Blair House, Prime Minister Modi was greeted enthusiastically by members of the Indian-American diaspora. Despite the chilly weather, community members gathered in large numbers, waving Indian and American flags and chanting slogans such as “Bharat Mata ki Jai,” “Vande Mataram,” and “Modi, Modi.” Expressing his gratitude, Modi shared on social media, “A warm reception in the winter chill! Despite the cold weather, the Indian diaspora in Washington DC has welcomed me with a very special welcome. My gratitude to them.”

Community members expressed their hopes for the visit. Mahendra Sapa, a Washington, D.C., resident and member of Vishwa Hindu Parishad America (VHPA), stated, “We, with folded hands, request Modi ji to ensure that, just as in 1971, the concerns of Bangladesh’s minorities are addressed at the earliest.” Another attendee emphasized the broad participation at the event, noting, “From children to elders, Indian Americans have gathered here on this drizzling evening to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi.” She added, “We are confident that this meeting will achieve greater heights, as Modi strives to make India the best and Trump works to make America great again.”

Upcoming Meeting with President Donald Trump

Prime Minister Modi and President Trump are scheduled to meet at the White House on February 13 at 4:00 PM EST (2:30 AM IST on February 14). Their discussions are expected to cover key issues, including trade disputes, import tariffs, and defense collaborations. India has been advocating for lower tariffs on its exports, while the U.S. is looking to expand its sales of energy and military equipment to India.

Additionally, the leaders will address Indo-Pacific security, counterterrorism efforts, and investment partnerships. The meeting will be followed by a private dinner hosted by President Trump. Both leaders are also expected to address the media in the Oval Office before or after their discussions.

Significance of the Visit

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized the importance of the visit, highlighting the strong bilateral ties between the two nations. “The fact that the Prime Minister has been invited to visit the US within barely three weeks of the new administration taking office shows the importance of the India-US partnership and is also reflective of the bipartisan support this partnership enjoys in the US,” Misri said.

Prime Minister Modi underscored the significance of his meeting with President Trump, stating, “Although this will be our first meeting following his historic electoral victory and inauguration in January, I have a very warm recollection of working together in his first term in building a Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership between India and the U.S.” He further highlighted the scope of the discussions, noting, “This visit will be an opportunity to build upon the successes of our collaboration in his first term and develop an agenda to further elevate and deepen our partnership, including in the areas of technology, trade, defense, energy, and supply chain resilience. We will work together for the mutual benefit of the people of our two countries and shape a better future for the world.”

Prime Minister Modi is the fourth foreign leader to be hosted by President Trump since his inauguration last month. In less than a month since the beginning of Trump’s second term, the White House has also welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and Jordan’s King Abdullah II.

This visit marks a significant step in advancing India-U.S. relations, with both nations aiming to strengthen their Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership for the benefit of their people and the broader international community.