The years when Donald Trump was President of the United States (2017-2021) and Narendra Modi was Prime Minister of India saw significant shifts in the bilateral relations between the two countries. Their collaboration focused on trade, defense, and regional security, as well as personal diplomatic gestures that marked their shared approach to governance.
1. Bilateral Trade and Economic Interests
- Trade Tensions and Tariff Negotiations: The Modi-Trump era was marked by intense trade negotiations, as the U.S. under Trump pursued protectionist policies that included imposing tariffs on several imported goods, including Indian products. India, in turn, imposed its own tariffs on certain U.S. goods. However, both leaders shared an interest in expanding economic ties and sought to address these differences through negotiations. This included discussions over energy exports from the U.S. to India, leading to increased energy trade, particularly in liquefied natural gas (LNG) and crude oil.
- Potential Trade Deal: A comprehensive trade deal was a point of discussion, though it remained unfulfilled by the end of Trump’s term. Nonetheless, Trump’s visit to India in 2020 emphasized shared economic goals, and the leaders’ agreement on principles such as fair trade practices underscored a willingness to continue dialogue.
2. Defense and Security Cooperation
- Strengthening Defense Ties: Defense cooperation between the U.S. and India grew significantly under Modi and Trump, particularly with the signing of critical defense agreements like COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) and BECA (Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement). These agreements enhanced India’s access to U.S. defense technology and intelligence, aligning both nations in strategic military coordination.
- Indo-Pacific Strategy and China: Both leaders also shared concerns about China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific. They supported the concept of a “free and open Indo-Pacific,” leading to closer ties through the Quad—a strategic alliance between the U.S., India, Japan, and Australia. The Modi-Trump relationship allowed for a unified stance on regional security matters, sending a clear message regarding the importance of maintaining stability in the region.
3. Cultural Diplomacy and Public Engagement
- High-Profile Events: Modi and Trump hosted each other at large, symbolic events that underscored their rapport and engagement with Indian-Americans in the U.S. and with Indians at home. Notable among these was the “Howdy, Modi!” event in Houston in 2019, attended by thousands, followed by the “Namaste Trump” event in Ahmedabad, India, in 2020. These events showcased a strong personal bond, with both leaders embracing each other in public displays of camaraderie and mutual respect.
- People-to-People Ties: Both leaders emphasized the contributions of the Indian diaspora to the U.S. and highlighted people-to-people connections. Trump’s administration implemented policies favorable to skilled Indian immigrants, which helped foster goodwill among the Indian-American community, although visa policies remained a complex issue with reforms impacting employment opportunities for skilled Indian workers.
4. Shared Political Approaches
- Populist and Nationalist Narratives: Modi and Trump shared populist rhetoric, focusing on national pride, self-reliance, and projecting strength on the global stage. Modi’s “Make in India” and Trump’s “America First” policies were reflections of their similar political philosophies, appealing to domestic audiences and seeking to boost economic independence.
- Strategic Alliances for Domestic Support: Both leaders frequently highlighted their diplomatic achievements to strengthen their positions at home, with bilateral visits and public events being leveraged for domestic political advantage. This emphasis on domestic outcomes often translated into policy decisions aimed at benefiting their respective economies and political bases.
5. Challenges and Differences
- Immigration Policy: Despite close ties, Trump’s immigration policies, particularly around H-1B visas, posed challenges for Indian professionals, which became a point of contention. Modi’s government continued to advocate for policies beneficial to Indian citizens in the U.S., underscoring the need for streamlined work opportunities for skilled Indian labor.
- Trade Deficits and Market Access: Trade imbalances were another contentious issue. The U.S. pressed India for greater market access, while India sought concessions on tariffs imposed on its products. Despite these differences, the groundwork laid by Trump and Modi allowed for continued discussions on a more balanced economic partnership.
The relationship between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump symbolized a new phase of Indo-U.S. relations, characterized by both cooperation and negotiation. While economic and security interests drove their partnership, their shared nationalist approaches and high-profile engagements created a robust personal connection that bolstered bilateral ties. Though Trump is no longer in office, the strategic foundation of defense and trade cooperation built during this period continues to influence U.S.-India relations.
