Modi and US Vice President Vance discuss trade pact, review bilateral ties

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Vice President J.D. Vance on Monday welcomed the significant progress made in negotiations on the proposed India-US Trade Pact. The two leaders held wide-ranging talks in New Delhi, followed by a dinner hosted by Modi for Vance, his Indian-origin wife Usha, and a delegation of US officials.

In a statement, the Indian government said that both leaders reviewed ongoing bilateral cooperation across sectors and made a positive assessment. “They welcomed the significant progress made in negotiations for an India-US bilateral trade agreement focused on the welfare of the people of the two countries and beneficial to each other,” the statement noted.

Modi and Vance also discussed enhancing collaboration in areas such as energy, defence, and strategic technology. They exchanged views on regional and global developments and underscored the importance of dialogue and diplomacy.

Vance’s visit comes amid the US administration’s decision to pause retaliatory tariffs on around 60 countries, including India, for three months. New Delhi and Washington are currently engaged in talks aimed at finalising a trade agreement that addresses tariffs, market access, and other key concerns.

During their visit, Vance and his family are also scheduled to tour Jaipur and Agra.