Trump and Modi Push for Breakthrough in US-India Trade Talks

While Joe Biden stumbles through foreign summits and waffles on America's role in the global economy, Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are signaling real progress in restoring strong, mutually beneficial U.S. trade relationships. This week, both leaders expressed optimism about breaking through longstanding barriers and moving toward a comprehensive trade deal between the world’s two largest democracies.

Modi called the U.S. and India “close friends and natural partners,” adding that the two sides are pushing to wrap up negotiations "at the earliest." He emphasized the “limitless potential” of a partnership based on fairness, strength, and shared values.

Trump echoed that sentiment, calling Modi “a very good friend” and expressing confidence that a favorable outcome could be reached in the coming weeks.

This marks a stark contrast to the Biden administration’s approach, which has largely sidelined India in favor of weak climate deals and endless multilateral bureaucracies. Under Trump, bilateral trade is back on the table with real results.

Here’s where progress is being made:

• Agriculture: Trump is pushing India to open its markets to U.S. dairy and farm products. India, traditionally protective of its small farmers, is showing signs of flexibility.

• Energy: The Trump team is encouraging India to reduce its dependence on Russian oil and shift toward American liquefied natural gas and crude exports—a win for U.S. energy jobs and Indian energy security.

• Technology: U.S. tech companies are demanding better access to India’s booming digital market, and Trump is laying the groundwork for stronger intellectual property protections and fewer data localization restrictions.

Even with a few hurdles remaining, the tone from both sides is unmistakable: this is a negotiation between equals, not a lecture from a condescending globalist. Trump and Modi understand that real partnerships are built on strength, not apologies.

Compare that to Biden’s record alienating allies, empowering China, and failing to counter Russian influence in Asia. Under Biden, American economic leadership has been reduced to press conferences and climate platitudes.

This Trump-Modi momentum could reshape trade in the Indo-Pacific and cement a pro-growth, pro-America alliance that counters both Chinese aggression and Russian influence. And unlike the current administration, Trump isn’t afraid to push hard for American interests and our allies respect that.

As both leaders navigate domestic political headwinds, their united front sends a powerful message: leadership still matters and so does mutual respect.

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