India-US Defence Pact and Trade Talks Gain Momentum

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 6th Nov: India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, met US Senator Steve Daines to discuss the signing of the upcoming 10-year defence framework agreement, expanding bilateral trade engagement, and exploring new areas of cooperation in technology and innovation.

In a post on X, Kwatra thanked Senator Daines—who serves on the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee—for his strong support in strengthening India-US relations. “It was an honor to meet Senator Steve Daines. We had an enriching conversation on the 10-year defence framework agreement, trade engagement, and opportunities in technology and innovation,” he stated.

Kwatra also hosted US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Paul Kapur, at India House in Washington. Both officials held detailed discussions on shared regional priorities and enhancing the strategic partnership between the two democracies. Kapur thanked Kwatra for the engagement, saying it was an “opportunity to discuss shared priorities and deepen ties.”

Meanwhile, the White House reaffirmed the strong rapport between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said, “The President has great respect for Prime Minister Modi, and they speak pretty frequently.”

Leavitt cited the recent Diwali celebrations at the White House—attended by Ambassador Kwatra and newly appointed US Ambassador Sergio Gor—as a symbol of growing cultural and diplomatic closeness. “President Trump feels very positive about the relationship and remains committed to strengthening it,” she said.

During the October 21 event, President Trump described Prime Minister Modi as “a great person” and praised the Indian-American community for its contribution to the US. Leavitt added that trade negotiations between the two nations are in “very serious discussions,” underscoring the administration’s intent to elevate India-US economic cooperation further.