India-US Free Trade Talks On The Horizon As PM Modi Gears Up For US Trip: Report

India and the United States (US) are poised to initiate negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) in the coming weeks, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit the US and meet President Donald Trump from 12 to 14 February, Indian Express reported.

The discussions are anticipated to focus on strengthening bilateral trade ties, enhancing economic cooperation, and addressing key policy concerns between the two nations.

Strategic Diplomatic Engagements Precede US Visit

Before heading to the US, PM Modi will visit France, where he will co-chair the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit in Paris on 10-11 February.

Following this, he is scheduled to travel to Marseille on February 12 before proceeding to Washington, as reported by Reuters, citing a White House official. However, specific details of the visit remain undisclosed.

The expected trade negotiations come at a crucial time as both nations aim to deepen economic collaboration. The agreement could pave the way for greater market access, reduced tariffs, and strengthened trade frameworks across multiple sectors.

Modi-Trump Dialogue Signals Strengthening Ties

Ahead of the visit, President Trump and PM Modi held a phone conversation on 27 January, during which they discussed key bilateral issues, including immigration policies and defence trade.

The US president also emphasised the importance of India purchasing more American-made security equipment, reinforcing Washington’s interest in expanding defence cooperation with New Delhi.

Following the conversation, PM Modi took to social media platform X, expressing his commitment to fostering a "mutually beneficial and trusted partnership" between the two nations. He reiterated India's dedication to working towards global peace, prosperity, and security through enhanced collaboration with the US.

Also Read: Chinese AI Firm DeepSeek Faces Global Backlash: After Italy, Australia And Taiwan, US State Texas Bans App Over Data Security Concerns