US Vice President JD Vance is expected to visit India later this month, accompanied by Second Lady Usha Vance, Politico reported, citing sources familiar with the plans.
This will mark Vance’s second foreign trip since assuming office as Vice President. Last month, he visited France and Germany, Politico noted. Usha Vance, the Second Lady, has Indian roots, with her parents having emigrated from India to the United States.
The visit is set against the backdrop of ongoing tough negotiations between the two nations over tariffs. On Tuesday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized the tariffs imposed by various countries on US products, making specific reference to India’s duties on American alcohol and agricultural goods.
“In fact, I have a handy dandy chart here that shows not just Canada but the rate of tariffs across the board. If you look at Canada, since you brought it up, American cheese and butter face nearly a 300 percent tariff. You look at India — 150 percent tariff on American alcohol. Do you think that’s helping Kentucky bourbon be exported into India? I don’t think so. 100 percent tariff on agricultural products from India,” Leavitt stated.
US President Donald Trump also criticized India’s tariffs last week, claiming it is “next to impossible to sell anything to India” due to the high tariff rates.
Earlier in February, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met US Vice President JD Vance and his family on the sidelines of the AI summit in Paris. The meeting coincided with the birthday of Vance’s son, Vivek, which both sides celebrated together.
PM Modi expressed his joy in joining the celebration and described having a “great conversation” with the Vance family. “Had a wonderful meeting with US Vice President JD Vance and his family. We had a great conversation on various subjects. Delighted to join them in celebrating the joyous birthday of their son, Vivek!” PM Modi posted on X.
In response, Vice President JD Vance expressed his gratitude towards PM Modi, saying, “Prime Minister Modi was gracious and kind, and our kids really enjoyed the gifts. I’m grateful to him for the wonderful conversation.”
As a special gesture, PM Modi also gifted an eco-friendly wooden alphabet set to Mirabel Rose Vance, the daughter of JD Vance. This sustainable wooden alphabet set is a durable, safe, and engaging learning tool, designed to enhance motor skills and cognitive abilities. Unlike plastic alternatives, it is free from harmful chemicals and promotes environmental conservation.
