Speculation is growing about a potential visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the United States in September 2025, coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session. While the primary purpose of the trip would be to address the UNGA in New York, a key focus is anticipated to be a meeting with US President Donald Trump amidst escalating trade tensions between the two nations.
The 80th session of the UNGA is scheduled to commence on September 9, 2025, with the high-level General Debate taking place from September 23 to 29. Sources indicate that Modi is slated to address the UNGA on the morning of September 26. Trump is expected to speak on September 23. This annual gathering brings together leaders from all 193 UN member states to address global challenges and collaborate on solutions.
Ties between India and the US have been strained recently due to trade disputes and diplomatic disagreements. Trump's claim to have brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, which was denied by Delhi, has also contributed to the friction. The US has imposed tariffs totaling 50% on Indian goods, a move that has angered New Delhi. This includes a 25% tariff for India's high tariffs and an additional 25% penalty for continuing to purchase Russian oil.
The potential meeting between Modi and Trump aims to address these trade issues and find common ground on tariffs. It could also provide an opportunity for the two leaders to announce a trade deal, although several factors need to align for this to happen. Negotiations are reportedly underway on both the trade deal and the Russia-Ukraine war fronts.
India has expressed its displeasure with the US decision to impose additional tariffs, calling the move "unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable". The Ministry of External Affairs has stated that India will take all necessary measures to protect its national interests.
Despite the tensions, both countries recognize the importance of their strategic partnership. The US views India as a counterbalance to China, while India sees the US as a key partner in technology, defense, and energy cooperation. A resolution to the trade disputes could pave the way for a visit by the US President to India in October for the summit of Quad leaders.
In addition to the UNGA address and the potential meeting with Trump, Modi is also expected to hold high-level meetings with other world leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy has indicated that he and Modi have agreed to plan a personal meeting in September during the UN General Assembly.
The visit to the US is viewed as an opportunity to smooth out the issues between the two countries. Sources say that the Indian side has already reached out to the UN headquarters to secure a speaking slot for the Prime Minister at the UN General Assembly. As of now, that has been scheduled for September 26 morning.
The India-US relationship has experienced fluctuations over the years. While the Trump era has brought trade tensions and strategic realignments, both countries have a long-term interest in maintaining a strong relationship. The potential meeting between Modi and Trump in September could be a crucial step in resolving the current disputes and укрепляя the partnership.
