5 key issues PM Modi is expected to take up with Joe Biden during US visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in the United States on a state visit from June 21 to June 24. During his maiden state visit to the US, PM Modi will be hosted by President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. President Biden will host a grand State Dinner in the honour of PM Modi on June 22. Additionally, PM Modi will also address a joint session of the United States Congress on the same day.

The fact that PM Modi has been invited to deliver the historic speech by the congressional leaders of both parties reflects strong bipartisan support for India. Addressing a joint meeting of the House of Representatives and Senate is one of the highest honours Washington bestows on foreign dignitaries. But, behind all the pageantry and ceremonies, PM Modi’s state visit is an indication of the strong bonding between the two countries.

The discussions between PM Modi and President Joe Biden will likely focus on their commitment to upholding a free and open Indo-Pacific, deepening trade, and enhancing security cooperation. Contentious issues such as the conflict between Ukraine and Russia will also be discussed.

Ahead of PM Modi’s landmark state visit, let us take a look at all the aspects of the India-US bilateral relationship.

Countering China vis-à-vis the Quad

The US is trying to bolster India as a democratic bulwark to a rising China. The cornerstone of that strategy is to ensure a free, open, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific region. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre recently indicated that China’s hegemony is bringing the two countries closer. While speaking to reporters, she said, “The PM and the President will discuss ways to strengthen our two countries, shared commitment to a free, open, prosperous and secure Indo-Pacific and our shared resolve to elevate our strategic technology partnership, including defence."

Defence cooperation

Defence would be a major part of the discussion between the two leaders as the US is trying to woo India away from Russian military hardware.

The US and India are expected to sign agreements on bilateral defence cooperation, especially in areas of transfer of critical technologies for co-development of cutting-edge military hardware. Reports suggest that New Delhi is expected to sign the deal for procuring at least 18 armed MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones.

Ukraine-Russia conflict

India has maintained neutrality in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. President Biden might bring up the issue during their meeting seeking PM Modi to take a more principled stand on the issue.

WTO farm subsidies

India has consistently maintained that the World Trade Organisation (WTO) should have a relook at the issue of farm subsidies. This issue impacts the food security needs of developing countries like India. So, PM Modi might raise this sticking point with President Biden. India wants a revision of the formula WTO uses to calculate current domestic farm subsidies extended by developing nations.