By Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has proposed significant increases in defense and energy purchases from the United States during his meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House. The discussions, aimed at easing trade tensions, included plans for India to buy more U.S. oil, gas, and combat aircraft, including the F-35 stealth fighter.
Trump welcomed the proposals, stating that such deals could help reduce the U.S. trade deficit with India, which currently stands at $45.6 billion. “We’re paving the way to ultimately provide India with the F-35 stealth fighters,” Trump said during a joint press conference.
The leaders also agreed to deepen security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, a move seen as countering China’s growing influence. Modi emphasized India’s commitment to peace, stating, “India has a side, and that side is of peace.”
While the F-35 deal remains a proposal, the talks mark a significant step toward resolving trade disputes and strengthening bilateral ties. Both leaders praised each other’s commitment to national interests, with Modi stating, “I deeply appreciate that [Trump] keeps the national interest supreme.