Prime Minister Narendra Modi met US National Security Advisor Michael Waltz on Thursday in Washington, DC, marking his first engagement of the day before a highly awaited meeting with President Donald Trump. The meeting took place at Blair House, where Modi is staying during his visit. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Indian NSA Ajit Doval were also present, given the strategic significance of the discussions. Sharing a glimpse of the meeting with Waltz , PM Narendra Modi said that he discussed defence, technology and security with him while calling him 'a great friend of India'. Had a fruitful meeting with NSA @michaelgwaltz. He has always been a great friend of India. Defence, technology and security are important aspects of India-USA ties and we had a wonderful discussion around these issues. There is strong potential for cooperation in sectors like… pic.twitter.com/5w3Gv2lMJ6 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 13, 2025 “Had a fruitful meeting with NSA @michaelgwaltz. He has always been a great friend of India. Defence, technology and security are important aspects of India-USA ties and we had a wonderful discussion around these issues. There is strong potential for cooperation in sectors like AI, semiconductors, space and more.” Later in the day, Modi will hold bilateral talks with Trump at the White House, followed by a joint press statement and a state dinner hosted by the US president. This marks the first formal talks between the two leaders since Trump began his second term last month. The meeting comes amid heightened trade tensions, with Trump doubling down on his "reciprocal tariffs" policy. In a cryptic post on Truth Social earlier, the US president reiterated his stance, signaling potential trade negotiations as a key agenda item. With India and the US navigating critical issues, including defense, technology, and economic cooperation, Modi’s visit is expected to set the tone for the future of the bilateral partnership.
