Modi May Visit US in September for UNGA, Bilateral Talks with Trump

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit the United States in the last week of September, with the primary agenda of addressing the United Nations General Assembly in New York and holding bilateral talks with US President Donald Trump. A key focus of the visit will be resolving trade differences and finding common ground on tariffs, potentially paving the way for a new trade agreement.
The discussions are expected to cover two major issues — progress on a resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the conclusion of an Indo-US trade deal. India has been facing a 50% tariff from the US, comprising penalties for both high import duties and purchases of Russian oil. Modi has recently spoken with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, underscoring India’s interest in an early resolution to the conflict.
On the trade front, negotiators from both countries are working toward “Mission 500,” a goal to increase bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030. This will require finalizing the first stage of a multi-sector Bilateral Trade Agreement aimed at improving market access, reducing tariffs, and enhancing supply chain integration. However, some sticking points remain, and fresh terms are being discussed.
Modi’s visit is tentatively scheduled for September 26, aligning with his speaking slot at the UNGA. The trip would also provide opportunities for meetings with Trump and other world leaders, as well as preparations for the US President’s planned visit to India in October for the Quad leaders’ summit.