Modi to meet Trump with focus on trade, immigration and strategic ties 

There have been numerous technology transfers between the U.S. and India, including in areas such as aircraft engines and infantry combat vehicles.

Immigration is another significant issue for both nations. While India has expressed willingness to cooperate with the U.S. on taking back undocumented migrants, an incident last week involving 104 undocumented Indian nationals being shackled for 40 hours during their return flight on a U.S. military plane sparked protests from opposition parties in India.

Indian officials have indicated that future deportations will be handled with a call for improved treatment of deportees. Additionally, India’s top priority in discussions will be safeguarding legal immigration channels for skilled workers and students heading to American universities. Indians are the largest group benefiting from H1B visas, which allow U.S. employers to hire foreign professionals in specialized fields like technology.

Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India’s foreign minister, underscored the importance of people-to-people ties as a cornerstone of U.S.-India relations while addressing concerns over deportation practices.

Ahead of his meeting with President Trump, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the opportunity to build on the achievements of their collaboration during Trump’s first term.

The mutual concern of an assertive China is expected to strengthen the U.S.-India alliance. India, alongside the U.S., Australia, and Japan, is a member of the Quad, a security grouping focused on the Indo-Pacific. Analysts note that both countries share common geostrategic interests, particularly in maintaining peace and stability in the region.

“It was President Trump in his first term who revived the Quad, which had been dormant for a decade, and played a key role in its resurgence,” said Mahapatra. "This is an area where both countries align in their efforts to contribute to peace and growth in the Indo-Pacific."