Modi-Trump: Key Takeaways, F-35 Jets

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

Modi and Trump discussed several crucial issues during their meeting. Agreement was reached on the extradition of 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana. The possibility of an F-35 jet deal between India and the US increased. Both countries set a target of reaching $500 billion in trade. Trump offered to mediate in India’s border dispute. India is prepared to take back illegal citizens.

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Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Modi-Trump Meeting: Glimpses of 26/11 Extradition, F-35 Jets, and Trade Deals

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Trade, defense, and immigration took center stage during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s bilateral meeting with Donald Trump. Key takeaways from the meeting included the extradition of 26/11 Mumbai attack accused Tahawwur Rana to India and the F-35 jet deal. This meeting, occurring within the first month of Trump’s presidency, is considered significant.

During the joint press briefing, PM Modi said India and the US have set a USD 500 billion target for bilateral trade by 2030. India will import more US oil and gas to shrink the trade deficit. Trump welcomed India’s recent measures to lower tariffs on US products. The F-35 deal has vast implications for the two allies.

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The bonhomie between Trump and Modi was clearly visible. Modi said that only Trump had a “copyright on the word deal”. Trump reciprocated by asserting that Modi was a “much better negotiator” than him. The meeting’s positive tone could pave the way for enhanced cooperation on security, counter-terrorism, and defense.

Extradition of 26/11 Accused

A key announcement was the extradition of 26/11 terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana, a longstanding demand of India. “My administration has approved the extradition of Tahawwur Rana… to face justice in India,” Trump said. This decision marks a significant step in the fight against terrorism. This extradition highlights the commitment between India and the US to combatting terrorism.

F-35 Jet Deal

In a major boost to defense ties, Trump said the US would increase its military sales to India by “billions of dollars” and it would provide fifth-generation F-35 stealth jets to the country. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri later clarified that the deal was at “proposal stage.” The F-35 are state-of-the-art jets. New procurements and co-production arrangements for ‘Javelin’ anti-tank guided missiles and ‘Stryker’ Infantry Combat Vehicles were also announced. This F-35 deal is substantial for defense collaboration.

PM Modi added his own twist to Trump’s “MAGA” (Make America Great Again) slogan while lauding the partnership.

Other Critical Issues

When asked about the Russia-Ukraine war, PM Modi said India stood by peace, praising Trump’s efforts to douse the crisis.

On the Bangladesh crisis, Donald Trump rejected speculation of US involvement.

Days after the US deported 104 Indians, PM Modi stressed that India was fully prepared to take back “verified” citizens living in America illegally.

The two leaders announced the launch of the ‘TRUST’ initiative for greater collaboration in defense, AI, semiconductors, energy, and space. The ‘TRUST’ initiative will boost technological innovation.

Trump also offered to mediate to end the longstanding border issues between India and China along the LAC. He offered to help de-escalate the tensions.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

Modi-Trump meet discussed 26/11 extradition, F-35 jet deal, and trade. Both countries aimed for $500 billion in trade. Trump offered to mediate in the India-China border dispute.