US Vice President JD Vance kicked off a four-day visit to India on Monday, signaling a renewed push for closer economic ties between Washington and New Delhi amid growing global trade tensions. The high-level trip comes just two months after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with US President Donald Trump in Washington, underscoring the urgency of finalizing a long-anticipated trade agreement.
Vance received a grand ceremonial welcome in New Delhi, complete with an honour guard and traditional folk dancers. His visit, described by Indian media as “semi-private,” also includes his wife Usha of Indian descent and their children. The Vice President is expected to hold discussions with Prime Minister Modi, focusing on advancing the trade pact and reviewing the broader bilateral relationship.
India and the United States are currently negotiating the first tranche of a trade deal. New Delhi is hoping to seal the agreement within a 90-day window, following Trump’s recent announcement of a temporary pause on punitive tariffs. These negotiations have gained urgency as Washington continues to ramp up tariffs on Chinese goods, prompting Beijing to retaliate with steep duties on US exports.
India, meanwhile, is taking a cautious but optimistic approach. The Department of Commerce has stated it is evaluating the implications of the US-China trade war while also identifying new opportunities for Indian exporters.
The backdrop of Vance’s visit highlights both cooperation and strain. While Trump has praised Modi as a “great friend,” he also accused India of not “treating us right” on trade matters. Still, both leaders appear committed to navigating these complexities in pursuit of a mutually beneficial outcome.
India, a key player in the Indo-Pacific, is also a strategic partner in the Quad alliance, alongside the US, Japan, and Australia. Vance’s itinerary includes a stop in Agra to visit the iconic Taj Mahal, adding a cultural dimension to his diplomatic mission.
With a potential Trump visit to India later this year for a Quad summit, Vance’s tour is likely to lay crucial groundwork for deeper strategic alignment between the two democracies in trade, defense, and regional stability.
