Syed Jashanzeeb
The relationship between the United States and India has undergone a significant transformation over the decades, evolving from a period of cautious engagement to a deep strategic partnership. One of the defining moments in this journey was the close rapport between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former U.S. President Donald Trump, which played a crucial role in strengthening bilateral ties in multiple domains. When Narendra Modi first took office as India’s Prime Minister in 2014, U.S.-India relations were already on an upward trajectory. However, it was during Trump’s presidency from 2017 to 2021 that the relationship reached new heights, particularly in defense cooperation, trade, and diplomatic collaboration. The two leaders, both known for their strong leadership styles, found common ground on several issues, which helped to cement the foundation for a robust bilateral partnership.
One of the most remarkable moments in U.S.-India relations under Modi and Trump was the “Howdy, Modi!” event held in Houston, Texas, in September 2019. It was an unprecedented gathering where over 50,000 Indian-Americans attended to celebrate the friendship between the two nations. Modi, in his address, spoke about the deepening ties between India and the U.S., emphasizing shared democratic values and economic opportunities. Trump’s presence at the event was a significant diplomatic gesture, signaling the growing importance of India in U.S. foreign policy. In response, India hosted the “Namaste Trump” event in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, in February 2020. The grand welcome was attended by thousands of people, and Trump, in his speech, praised India’s rise as a global power. This visit further strengthened defense ties, as India agreed to purchase military equipment worth $3 billion from the United States, including MH-60 Romeo and Apache helicopters. This marked another milestone in India’s defense modernization efforts, highlighting its increasing reliance on American defense technology.
During their time in office, Modi and Trump worked closely on trade negotiations, though not without challenges. Trump was vocal about the U.S. trade deficit with India and sought greater market access for American goods. He revoked India’s preferential trade status under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) in 2019, arguing that India was not providing fair market access. Despite this setback, bilateral trade between the two nations continued to grow, with both sides recognizing the importance of economic collaboration.
The defense relationship also saw significant progress. In 2018, the U.S. granted India the status of a “Major Defense Partner,” allowing for greater technology-sharing and defense cooperation. Under the Modi-Trump era, key agreements such as the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) were signed, facilitating secure communication between the armed forces of both countries. The U.S. also supported India in counterterrorism efforts, particularly after the Pulwama attack in 2019, when Trump backed India’s stance against Pakistan-based terrorist groups. One of the major geopolitical shifts during this period was the growing focus on the Indo-Pacific region. Both leaders were keen on strengthening security ties to counter China’s expanding influence. This resulted in India’s increased participation in the Quad alliance alongside the U.S., Japan, and Australia. The Quad gained renewed momentum, with greater emphasis on maritime security and strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 added another dimension to U.S.-India relations. Both Modi and Trump worked together to ensure medical cooperation, with India supplying hydroxychloroquine to the U.S. when it was considered a potential treatment for the virus. The pandemic also highlighted the importance of strengthening global supply chains, leading to discussions on reducing dependency on China and enhancing U.S.-India trade ties in pharmaceuticals and technology.
As Trump’s presidency came to an end in 2021, the foundation laid during his tenure continued to influence U.S.-India relations. President Joe Biden’s administration built upon many of the policies established under Trump, ensuring continuity in defense cooperation, trade discussions, and strategic alliances. The Modi-Trump era was marked by a unique personal camaraderie that played a significant role in elevating the bilateral relationship to new heights. Looking ahead, the U.S.-India partnership remains strong, with both nations recognizing each other as critical allies in the evolving global order. The legacy of Modi-Trump relations continues to shape diplomatic engagements, reinforcing the idea that a robust U.S.-India partnership is essential for regional and global stability.
In February 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss key issues, primarily focusing on trade and defense. Despite Trump’s threats to impose tariffs, both leaders signaled openness to negotiations, aiming to resolve trade concerns and potentially complete a deal later in the year. In defense, Trump announced plans to increase military sales to India.
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