President Donald Trump welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the White House with a warm embrace, highlighting their friendship despite Trump’s warning that India will not be exempt from the higher tariffs imposed on U.S. trade partners. Trump criticized India’s import levies as unfair and strong, emphasizing the need for reciprocity in trade relations. The U.S. and India currently face a trade deficit of $50 billion in India’s favor, with efforts to balance trade through increased U.S. energy exports and a potential major trade deal in the works.

Modi reciprocated Trump’s praise and expressed his commitment to “Make India Great Again,” a nod to Trump’s own slogan. The leaders also discussed extraditing individuals involved in the 2008 Mumbai attacks and increasing military sales, including the possibility of providing India with F-35 stealth fighter planes. Modi sought to improve relations with the U.S. amid concerns over additional tariffs and frosty relations with the West following India’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Trump’s administration has been focused on reducing trade deficits globally, with recent tariff actions targeting various countries, including China and the European Union. The imposition of reciprocal tariffs aims to create a level playing field for U.S. manufacturers but may result in higher prices for American consumers and businesses. Modi’s visit underscored efforts to enhance trade cooperation, including commitments to purchase more American oil and lower tariffs on certain U.S. goods.

The leaders also discussed immigration issues, with India agreeing to repatriate migrants as part of the U.S. government’s immigration enforcement measures. Both countries are addressing unauthorized Indian immigrants in the U.S., with Modi affirming India’s willingness to cooperate in repatriation efforts. The meeting between Trump and Modi reflects ongoing diplomatic efforts to strengthen ties and address key economic and security concerns between the two nations.