Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the United States on Wednesday (local time) for a two-day official visit, at the invitation of US President Donald Trump. Upon his arrival, PM Modi was welcomed by India’s Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, and other senior officials.
This marks PM Modi’s first visit to the US since President Trump began his second term. During his trip, PM Modi is scheduled to meet with President Trump to discuss key issues and strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations.
Members of the Indian community gathered outside Blair House to extend a warm welcome to PM Modi. Braving the chilly winter, enthusiastic members of the Indian diaspora expressed their excitement. Baburaj, a Virginia resident from Telangana, shared, “All Indians are thrilled to see him here today.” Another community member, Srinivas, added, “We are here to welcome Prime Minister Modi. We are so excited that the US has given the highest priority to our Prime Minister, who represents 1.4 billion people.”
During his stay, PM Modi will be lodging at Blair House, the historic guest residence for high-profile dignitaries visiting the White House. Situated across from the White House on Pennsylvania Avenue, Blair House is renowned for hosting presidents, royalty, and global leaders, earning its reputation as “the world’s most exclusive hotel.” This 70,000-square-foot facility is more than just a luxurious guest house – it serves as a symbol of American diplomacy and hospitality, offering an environment where critical relationships are built and history is made.
Before departing for his visit, PM Modi outlined his agenda, emphasizing the opportunity to build on the successes of his earlier collaborations with the US. “This visit will allow us to develop a deeper partnership in key areas such as technology, trade, defense, energy, and supply chain resilience,” he said, reflecting on his strong working relationship with President Trump during the latter’s first term.
PM Modi also highlighted that his visit would aim to shape a better future for both nations and the world. “We will work together for the mutual benefit of our countries and further elevate our ties,” he added.
Since November 2024, PM Modi and President Trump have spoken twice on the phone. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also attended President Trump’s inauguration and participated in the QUAD Foreign Ministers’ meeting in January 2025.
PM Modi’s visit follows a recent three-day trip to France. During that visit, he met with US Vice President JD Vance, where they discussed key topics, including how the US can assist India in diversifying its energy sourcing through investments in clean, reliable US nuclear technology.
Following the meeting, PM Modi and Vice President Vance, along with Second Lady Usha Vance, enjoyed coffee together. PM Modi also shared gifts with the Vance children and wished Vice President Vance’s son, Vivek, a happy birthday.
In a post on social media, PM Modi expressed his joy at the meeting, writing, “Had a wonderful conversation with US Vice President JD Vance and his family. Delighted to join them in celebrating the joyous birthday of their son, Vivek!”
The US-India relationship has evolved significantly since 2005 when the two countries launched a “strategic partnership,” later elevated to a “Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership” during President Trump’s visit to India in February 2020. During Trump’s first term, the Indo-Pacific region became a key area of focus in US foreign policy.
