Indian Illegals, Trade Balance, US Visit, Discussed In Trump-Modi Call

India-West News Desk

WASHINGTON, DC – President Donald Trump stressed the importance of India increasing its purchases of American-made security equipment and working toward a fairer bilateral trading relationship during a phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 27, the White House reported. The two leaders also discussed plans for Modi’s upcoming visit to the U.S., which could take place in February.

Trump later told reporters that immigration was another significant topic of discussion. He stated that Modi “will do what’s right” regarding the return of Indian immigrants in the U.S. illegally.

Bloomberg News recently reported that India and the U.S. have identified approximately 18,000 Indian nationals living in the U.S. illegally. Trump also reiterated his support for the legal immigration of skilled workers, who make up the majority of H-1B visa recipients in the U.S.

During the call, Trump emphasized the need for India to increase its procurement of American-made security equipment and advance a more balanced trade relationship. The U.S. is India’s largest trading partner, with two-way trade exceeding $118 billion in the 2023/24 period. India posted a trade surplus of $32 billion, according to Reuters.

Described by the White House as a “productive call,” the conversation also covered expanding cooperation on security issues in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe.

Earlier, Prime Minister Modi had posted on social media about the call, referring to Trump as a “dear friend” and reaffirming their commitment to a mutually beneficial partnership. Modi said, “We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity, and security.”

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