Saturday, March 29, 2025
PM Modi and President Trump Likely to Meet Soon Amid Strained Ties — Key Expectations from the ASEAN Summit
Global attention is once again turning toward the evolving dynamics between India and the United States, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump are expected to meet soon during the upcoming ASEAN Summit in Malaysia on October 26.
According to official sources, Prime Minister Modi is likely to attend the summit, where a bilateral meeting with President Trump could take place on the sidelines. If confirmed, this would be the first face-to-face interaction between the two leaders since their February 2025 meeting in Washington D.C., where trade, defense, and regional security were at the top of the agenda.
Diplomatic observers believe the two sides may discuss a possible U.S.–India trade agreement, especially after recent strains caused by Washington’s heavy tariffs on Indian exports. The U.S. has reportedly increased duties on key goods, citing “imbalanced trade practices,” while India has been cautious in its response, emphasizing dialogue and cooperation.
The meeting could also focus on regional security, with growing concerns over Pakistan’s improving relations with the U.S. in recent months. Washington’s outreach to Islamabad — including the invitation extended to Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir, to the White House — has raised eyebrows in New Delhi.
Analysts are drawing comparisons with the Cold War era, when India pursued a non-aligned policy but leaned toward the Soviet Union, while Pakistan was closely aligned with the United States. Trump’s administration, critics say, appears to be reviving a similar strategy by engaging Pakistan as a counterweight to India’s ties with Russia.
In this context, the Modi–Trump meeting could prove crucial in defining the future trajectory of U.S.–India relations. “It’s a test of strategic trust,” said a senior diplomat. “Both leaders have strong personalities, and whether they can find common ground amid growing disagreements remains to be seen.”
While India’s Ministry of External Affairs has not yet confirmed Modi’s attendance at the ASEAN Summit, sources indicate the visit has not been ruled out either. On the other hand, President Trump himself has confirmed his participation, stating that he “looks forward to meaningful discussions” and is “open to meeting friends and partners.”
If the meeting happens, it could mark a turning point for bilateral ties that have recently been under strain due to tariffs, divergent views on the Russia–Ukraine conflict, and differing approaches to regional power balances in South and Southeast Asia.
