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“Beautiful Historic Site”: US Vice President JD Vance Visits Taj Mahal with Family

April 24, 2025, 4:26 am

US Vice President JD Vance, along with his wife Usha Vance and their three children—Ewan, Vivek, and Mirabel—visited the Taj Mahal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, on Wednesday. Calling it a “beautiful historic site,” Vance expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm reception he and his family received.

“Today I visited the Taj Mahal with Usha and the kids. It’s a beautiful historic site, and I’m grateful for the warm welcome we received there,” Vance shared on social media platform X, alongside captivating pictures of the family at the monument.

A Grand Welcome in Agra

To honour the high-profile visit, Agra was adorned with vibrant rangolis, sand art, and floral decorations stretching from the airport to the Taj. Flags of both India and the US lined the streets, accompanied by grand hoardings and banners celebrating the deepening ties between the two nations.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath personally welcomed the Vance family at the airport. Security was on high alert, with the 12-km route from the airport to the monument designated a zero-traffic zone, guarded by Indian and US security forces working in coordination.

More Than Just a Sightseeing Tour

The Vance family’s visit was more than a cultural stop; it symbolised the deepening diplomatic ties between India and the United States. During his India tour, Vance also spoke at a trade event in Jaipur, defending President Donald Trump’s global trade strategy and unveiling key updates in bilateral trade negotiations.

“Our goal is to more than double bilateral trade to USD 500 billion by the end of the decade,” Vance announced.
He added that both countries have finalised the Terms of Reference for a US-India Bilateral Trade Agreement, focusing on job creation, supply chain resilience, and economic growth.

Strategic and Cultural Diplomacy

Vice President Vance lauded India’s role in the upcoming QUAD summit, praising the two nations’ aligned interests in ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. He also highlighted the frequent joint military exercises between India and the US.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the Vance family at his Lok Kalyan Marg residence, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to stronger economic and security partnerships.

The Vances also visited the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in Delhi, Amber Fort in Jaipur, and the Central Cottage Industries Emporium, combining official duties with cultural appreciation.

India’s 150% Tariff on US Alcohol, 100% on Agriculture: White House

March 12, 2025, 4:58 am

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has criticized India’s high tariffs on US goods, stating that American alcohol faces a 150% tariff, while agricultural products are taxed at 100%. She made these remarks while addressing a press briefing, emphasizing that President Donald Trump believes in reciprocity and fair trade.

Trump’s Call for Fair Trade Practices

Leavitt accused several nations, including Canada, Japan, and India, of imposing excessive tariffs on American products, calling it unfair to US businesses and workers. She noted that Japan has a 700% tariff on American rice, while Canada imposes a 300% tariff on cheese and butter.

“Do you think that’s helping Kentucky bourbon be exported into India? I don’t think so,” she remarked, emphasizing the challenges faced by American exporters.

Trump’s Stance on Global Trade

President Trump has repeatedly highlighted what he sees as unfair global trade practices, stating that many nations have been “ripping off” the US for decades. In a recent address, he reiterated that tariffs on countries like Mexico, Canada, and India could increase further.

He also claimed that India has now agreed to lower its tariffs, attributing it to his administration’s pressure.

“India charges us massive tariffs. You can’t even sell anything there… They have agreed to cut them down now because somebody is finally exposing them,” Trump said.

Future of US-India Trade Relations

The ongoing tariff dispute raises concerns about US-India trade relations. While India has not officially commented on these claims, Trump’s remarks indicate a push for negotiations and potential trade policy changes.

With the US elections approaching, Trump’s focus on tariffs suggests that trade policies will continue to be a key part of his administration’s economic strategy.

India Rejects Claims of Non-Cooperation in Deportation Cases

February 8, 2025, 1:23 am

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Friday strongly refuted claims that India is uncooperative in handling deportations, stating that the process is not new and follows legal and security protocols. His comments echoed External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s statement in Parliament, emphasizing that all returnees must be verified as Indian citizens.

Speaking at a weekly press briefing, Misri confirmed that India has sought and received details from the U.S. authorities regarding 298 individuals out of 487 presumed Indian citizens with final removal orders. He reiterated that India has been transparent in its discussions with U.S. counterparts.

Use of Military Aircraft for Deportation

When asked about the recent deportation of illegal Indian immigrants via a military aircraft, Misri acknowledged that this case was unusual compared to previous deportations, which typically follow a different process.

Concerns Over Mistreatment of Deportees

Misri also addressed concerns regarding the treatment of deported Indian citizens, stating that India has taken up the matter with the U.S. government.

“We continue to emphasize to U.S. authorities that there should be no mistreatment of deportees. Any reported instances will be taken up seriously,” he assured.

India’s Stand on Restraints Used During Deportations

Jaishankar, in his statement, highlighted that the use of restraints on deportees has been a standard procedure since 2012, as per the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). However, he noted that:

Women and children are not restrained.
Basic needs such as food, medical attention, and toilet breaks are provided.

Misri further stated that India is engaging with the U.S. to ensure fair treatment of deported individuals and to take strict action against illegal immigration networks.

PM Modi Invited to White House by US President Trump

February 5, 2025, 10:24 pm

Washington DC [US]: US President Donald Trump has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a working visit to the White House next week, a White House official confirmed to The Hill on Wednesday. The visit comes after a recent phone call between the two leaders.

A Strengthening US-India Partnership

PM Modi is scheduled to visit Washington, DC, for a two-day trip. The discussions are expected to focus on expanding the US-India strategic partnership, trade relations, and security cooperation.

During a call on January 27, both leaders emphasized strengthening ties and working closely on Indo-Pacific security. They also discussed the upcoming Indo-Pacific Quad Leaders’ summit, which India is set to host later this year.

Trade and Security on the Agenda

According to a White House statement, Trump stressed the need for India to increase its procurement of American-made security equipment and work towards a fairer bilateral trade relationship.

“The leaders discussed a range of regional issues, including security in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe. President Trump emphasized the importance of India’s increased procurement of American-made security equipment,” the statement said.

Immigration Issues Also Addressed

The invitation also follows the recent arrival of a US Air Force plane carrying Indian citizens who allegedly migrated illegally to the US. A US Embassy spokesperson reiterated that the US is strictly enforcing its immigration policies.

“Our actions send a clear message that illegal migration is not worth the risk,” the spokesperson said.

Upcoming White House Visit

During the upcoming visit, Modi and Trump are expected to hold high-level discussions on trade, defense collaboration, and the evolving global landscape. The meeting underscores the growing strategic relationship between the two nations.

Ro Khanna, Rich McCormick Appointed to Chair India Caucus in US Congress

January 30, 2025, 1:57 am

Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna and Republican Lawmaker Rich McCormick will co-chair the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans in the US House of Representatives in the new Congress, according to an official release.

Representatives Andy Barr and Marc Veasey will continue as vice co-chairs. Congressman Brad Sherman, who previously served as chair, will continue to serve as chair emeritus, the release stated.

“A strong partnership with India is critical for our economy and national security. It is an honour to continue serving as co-chair of the India Caucus and to welcome Rep. Rich McCormick as the caucus’s new co-chair. Rep. McCormick has supported policies to strengthen the US-India relationship, and I look forward to working with him. I am grateful to Reps. Veasey and Barr for their continued leadership in the role of vice co-chairs,” said Rep. Ro Khanna.

The caucus is a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers committed to strengthening the relationship between the United States and India. In the new Congress, the members will continue working to strengthen partnerships between policymakers and the Indian American diaspora communities and advance shared defense and national security goals. The caucus grew to a record number of 145 members in the 118th Congress, with 35 new members joining under the leadership of Rep. Ro Khanna and former co-chair Rep. Michael Waltz, the release stated.

McCormick, who represents Georgia’s 7th Congressional District, expressed his support for strengthening the US-India relationship.

“I have the great privilege of serving many hard-working Indian Americans in my district and will continue to strengthen our relationship with India. The dedication, innovation, and contributions of this diaspora enrich our community and strengthen the bonds between our two nations. Together, let’s continue to champion the values of opportunity and collaboration that define both America and India,” Rich McCormick said.

As per the release, Congressman Andy Barr said that the US-India partnership is built on shared values of democracy, economic freedom, and security cooperation.

“Strengthening this relationship is critical to advancing our mutual interests in trade, technology, and defense. I look forward to working alongside my colleagues to further deepen the ties between our two great nations and to support the vibrant Indian American community that contributes so much to our country,” Andy Barr added.

Marc Veasey, who represents the 33rd Congressional District of Texas, said, “As the proud representative of Texas’ 33rd district, home to a vibrant and growing community of Indian and Indian American families, I am honoured to continue serving as vice co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India. I look forward to furthering the strong ties between the United States and India. The Indian American diaspora has made invaluable contributions to our nation, and I remain committed to fostering deeper partnerships that enhance both our economies and national security. Together, with our Chair, Rep. Ro Khanna, I know we will continue to build a strong relationship based on shared values.”

PM Modi To Visit US In February: ‘India Will Do What’s Right’

January 28, 2025, 8:35 am

In a key development in the US-India relationship, President Donald Trump of the US announced on Monday that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi would visit the US in February. This statement followed a telephonic conversation between the two leaders-a first one afterTrump was sworn in on January 20 to his second term.

According to the White House, the call was described as “productive,” with discussions focusing on deepening bilateral ties and enhancing cooperation in strategic areas. President Trump highlighted the importance of Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit, emphasising its potential to strengthen the US-India partnership further.

Discussions on Immigration and Strategic Partnerships

During their conversation, Trump and Modi also touched upon immigration issues, with the US President expressing confidence that India would take appropriate steps regarding the repatriation of illegal immigrants. Immigration reform has been a cornerstone of Trump’s administration, playing a pivotal role in his electoral success.

The leaders reiterated their commitment to advancing the US-India strategic partnership, particularly within the Indo-Pacific Quad framework. The statement also mentioned India’s plans to host Quad Leaders later this year, showcasing its growing role in regional geopolitics.

PM Modi’s Previous US Engagements

Prime Minister Modi’s last US visit occurred in September last year, where he attended the Quad Leaders’ Summit hosted by then-President Joe Biden. Modi also addressed the ‘Summit of the Future’ at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

In addition to these engagements, external affairs minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar represented India at President Trump’s second-term inauguration in Washington D.C., highlighting the importance of the US-India bilateral relationship.

Strengthening US-India Ties

As per the White House statement, the upcoming visit underscores the strong friendship and strategic alignment between the two nations. With plans to expand cooperation in critical areas, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the US is set to reinforce the growing collaboration between the world’s two largest democracies.

Eric Garcetti Urges Lower Tariffs, Fair Trade Practices With India

December 20, 2024, 2:31 am

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti emphasized the immense potential of the US-India partnership, stressing the importance of reducing tariffs and fostering fairer and more equitable trade. Speaking at an event organized by the US-India Business Council (USIBC) on Thursday, Garcetti stated, “We need, together, to lower tariffs, not to see them go up. We need, together, to increase trade and to make it more fair and equal. We need to, together, make sure that there’s training and talent that meets the needs of companies on both sides of the Indo-Pacific.”

He added, “We have to protect our trademarks and our intellectual property, and we have to make sure that transportation and infrastructure exists, for India to reach its goals more quickly, that is in the American interest, and vice versa, in the Indian interest as well. So let us renew our commitment to being more ambitious, to not settling for what is, and what is good, but reaching for what can be and what will be great.”

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The Ambassador also praised India’s workforce, calling it “the most extraordinary resources that humanity has on its planet.” Garcetti remarked, “And to realise these ambitions, we must recommit ourselves to a mutual path of trust and transparencies so that people know what to expect. India’s workforce, which numbers more than a billion people, is one of the most extraordinary resources that humanity has on its planet. They are builders, thinkers, innovators and entrepreneurs. The Indian dream is the flip side of what we used to call the American truth. In some ways you see it even more optimistically sometimes than our own country. And we can leave inspired when we work together about what’s possible.”

Garcetti also advocated for merging “American scientific and financial acumen” with “India’s grassroots ingenuity.” He said, “The US and India can create ecosystems that tap into this human capital to merge American scientific strengths in research, our financial acumen and business strategy with Indians’ jugaad finding a solution to everything, your deep talent pools, your grassroots ingenuity and your readiness to scale solutions on a massive level.”

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Marco Rubio Poised To Become Trump’s Secretary Of State: Report

November 12, 2024, 9:59 pm

Marco Rubio, a Cuban-American senator from Florida, is reportedly President-elect Donald Trump’s top pick for Secretary of State, according to The New York Times. If confirmed, Rubio will be the first Latino to hold this pivotal position.

Rubio’s Strong Stance on China

Known for his hardline views, Rubio has consistently criticized China’s aggressive policies. He has authored key legislation to counter Beijing’s influence, including the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act and measures targeting Huawei and ZTE.

In a 2022 speech, Rubio labeled China as the “greatest threat” of the 21st century, emphasizing that Beijing’s ambitions undermine global stability. He advocated for a united American front and stronger industrial independence to counter China’s dominance.

Championing US-India Ties

Rubio’s elevation could signal a boost in US-India relations. He has championed legislation to treat India as a key ally, promoting defense cooperation and supporting India’s stance against threats from China and Pakistan. His recent United States-India Defense Cooperation Act underlines his commitment to this partnership.

A Trusted Trump Ally

Though Rubio once clashed with Trump during the 2016 Republican primaries, he has since become a trusted advisor. His expertise in Latin American affairs and strong support for Trump’s policies have solidified his standing within the administration.

What This Means for Global Diplomacy

Rubio’s appointment is likely to be welcomed in many Indo-Pacific capitals, particularly New Delhi, which sees him as a steadfast partner. However, Beijing will likely view his leadership with concern, given his consistent advocacy for policies countering Chinese influence.

Rubio’s appointment could redefine America’s approach to global challenges, with a sharper focus on countering authoritarian regimes and strengthening strategic alliances.

Harris Presidency Would Shift US-India Relations, Says Aghi

November 6, 2024, 12:49 am

In the lead-up to the 2024 US Presidential Election, Mukesh Aghi, President and CEO of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, has shared insights on how the outcome will shape the future of US-India relations. He emphasized that if Vice President Kamala Harris wins the presidency, it will mark a continuation of the Biden administration’s approach, which focuses on a broader partnership rather than a purely trade-based relationship.

Aghi highlighted that Harris’s strategy would leverage India’s strategic position concerning China, noting the importance of collaboration to address China’s influence globally. “If Kamala Harris wins, there will be a continuation of the Biden approach to look at India not only through the prism of trade but with a much broader partnership,” he explained.

In contrast, Aghi predicted that a potential second term for Donald Trump would lead to a more transactional relationship with India. He warned of possible policy shifts, particularly in economic and trade areas, such as increased tariffs on Indian goods and scrutiny over technology transfers to India. “Under Trump, the policy agenda will shift dramatically, especially on the economic front,” he stated.

Aghi also touched upon the mood among American voters as they approach election day, describing it as one of anxiety and uncertainty. He likened the atmosphere to “young parents outside the delivery room,” reflecting the unpredictability of the election results.

He noted that early voting has already surpassed 50%, suggesting that many voters have made their decisions. However, he stressed that swing states would play a crucial role in determining the final outcome, with last-minute voters potentially swaying the results.

Furthermore, Aghi pointed out the significant turnout of women and minority groups, indicating that their participation could heavily influence the election. He referred to controversial comments made by Trump campaign figures as factors that might shape the electoral landscape, particularly in key states like Pennsylvania.

As the election approaches, the implications of the results will not only affect the United States but also have a global impact, making this election a pivotal moment for US-India relations and beyond.

India Is A Friend, Not A Counterbalance To China, Says US Envoy Eric Garcetti

September 24, 2024, 2:00 am

The United States views India as a “friend and partner” rather than a counterbalance to any other nation, according to US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti. He emphasized that both countries share common principles regarding borders, sovereignty, and the rule of law. In an interview with ANI, Garcetti highlighted that the US has consistently stood by India during border conflicts and fully supports India’s diplomatic engagements with China.

He noted that the US has a longstanding policy of not rewarding aggression anywhere in the world. “I would say that we see India as a friend and a partner, not a counterbalance. We share the principles about borders and sovereignty, about the rule of law. We’ve stood with India on the border when there’s been conflicts. We’ve recognized since 1952 the McMahon Line. We have a long history of ensuring that aggression should not be rewarded anywhere in the world. When it comes to China specifically, we all want to have peaceful relations with China,” Garcetti said.

When asked about the complex relationship between the US and China and how India fits into the broader regional dynamics, Garcetti stressed that Washington supports India’s diplomatic efforts, especially in light of the ongoing tensions with China. “We support India’s diplomatic interactions right now and I think it was announced, you know, that much of the border, about 75 per cent of it, as (EAM) Jaishankar said, has been settled, but nobody should move ahead when their sovereignty is threatened. That is something that we respect and will follow India’s lead in India’s land,” he added.

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The US envoy also underscored that the US aims to give countries options and prevent them from falling into debt traps. “Secondly, when we look at the region, we want to make sure people have choices that they don’t have death traps that they aren’t seen as inferring in domestic politics. That people can have democracies that they can have free market economies. They can have a rule of law that is respected by everybody. We want to calm the waters when it comes to relations with China,” he said.

Earlier this month, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that 75 percent of the disengagement issues with China have been resolved, but there is still work to be done. He also mentioned that India and China have historically had a complex relationship.

Garcetti further highlighted the strong bond between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden, describing Biden as “the most pro-Indian president we’ve had in US history.” He remarked, “These are two men (PM Modi and Joe Biden) who have such a close friendship, the most pro-American prime minister we’ve ever seen in Indian history, the most pro-Indian president we’ve had in US history and that’s building on people who have been very strong before. I think they are representative of the people and their country and the closeness that we have, having this in a home for the first time, the President’s home, personal home, really underscored that this is something that is here to stay.”

Speaking on the Quad alliance, Garcetti described it as a “powerful place” for setting a vision and offering solutions in the Indo-Pacific, in contrast to countries that don’t follow international rules. “The Quad is a powerful place to set a vision, to share principles and to come up with common solutions in the Indo-Pacific. It’s a contrast to nations that don’t want to play by the rules, don’t believe in the rule of law, but I think we will build solutions. It’s about what we can do proactively and this was a giant step forward,” he said.

The Quad, consisting of the US, India, Australia, and Japan, held its Leaders’ Summit in Wilmington, Delaware, hosted by US President Biden. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working with Pacific island nations to address shared challenges. They also pledged to collectively resist any efforts to undermine the integrity of the UN and its agencies. During a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi, President Biden reaffirmed his support for reforms to global institutions, including permanent membership for India on a reformed UN Security Council.

The sixth Quad Leaders’ Summit also marked a farewell for both US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida before they leave office.

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India, US discuss opportunities to improve and strengthen interoperability, logistics cooperation

September 27, 2023, 11:38 am

Officials from the two countries held discussions on ways to further strengthen interoperability and logistical cooperation, underscoring the relationship’s transformational momentum. The officials also discussed joint maritime engagements in the Indian Ocean region as well as increased cooperation in the space and cyber domains during the India-US 2+2 Intersessional Dialogue, according to the Pentagon. According to the statement, Joint Secretary Vishwesh Negi of the Ministry of Defence and Additional Secretary Vani Rao of the Ministry of External Affairs led the Indian delegation.

Dr. Ely Ratner, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs, and Donald Lu, Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, were in charge of the American delegation.

“The officials also discussed regional security developments and strategic priorities across the Indo-Pacific region,” a statement said. According to the Pentagon, the 2+2 Intersessional Dialogue advanced a wide range of ambitious projects spanning the US-India partnership, including those related to defense and security, emerging technologies, interpersonal relations, clean energy, and supply chain resilience.

Ratner and his counterparts in the defense sector discussed the development of the US-India Defense Industrial Cooperation Roadmap between the two nations. They committed to swiftly completing negotiations on the Security of Supply Arrangement and Reciprocal Defense Procurement agreements and welcomed the development of new co-production initiatives, according to the statement.

The officials emphasized the positive momentum in US-India relations and reaffirmed the importance of a strong alliance between the two nations for maintaining security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, the statement said. According to the Pentagon, Ratner reaffirmed the department’s dedication to collaborating with India to advance a common vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.