US Vice President JD Vance emphasized the importance of a strong partnership between India and the United States during a speech in Jaipur, stating that cooperation between the two nations is key to a “prosperous and peaceful” 21st century. He also warned that failure to collaborate effectively could lead to a “very dark time for all of humanity.”
Vance is currently on a four-day visit to India, where he met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to advance discussions on a potential bilateral trade agreement. Both sides expressed optimism about the progress made during negotiations, which are seen as critical to avoiding increased US tariffs on Indian goods.
India is among several countries working to finalize trade agreements with the United States before President Donald Trump’s temporary suspension of higher tariffs ends on July 9. Prior to the pause, Indian exports were set to face tariffs as high as 27 percent. Since then, trade talks have accelerated in hopes of reaching a deal that would prevent the implementation of those duties.
Speaking in Jaipur, Vance confirmed that both nations have now agreed on the terms of reference for negotiations — a key step toward what he called the shared vision of Trump and Modi. He also praised Modi as a “tough negotiator” and someone who “drives a hard bargain,” a comment that was met with applause.
While the two leaders have cultivated a friendly personal relationship, President Trump has repeatedly criticized India’s trade policies, calling the country a “tariff king” and accusing it of unfair trade practices. In a statement issued after Vance’s meeting with Modi, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer pointed to a “serious lack of reciprocity” in the trade relationship.
India has already reduced tariffs on several goods in recent months and is reportedly considering broader cuts to ease tensions. However, disputes remain, particularly in the agricultural sector, where the US is seeking greater access while India maintains strong protections.
Beyond trade, Vance noted that the US is looking to expand sales of energy and defense equipment to India. Discussions also covered strategic technology cooperation and defense partnerships.
Modi expressed his intent to host President Trump later this year, likely during the upcoming Quad summit in Delhi. The two leaders also attended a formal dinner following their talks.
Vance, who arrived in India on Monday with his wife Usha and their three children, is combining official meetings with personal travel. Usha Vance’s family originates from the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, and the couple reportedly wants their children to connect with their Indian heritage.
Photos of the Vance children wearing traditional Indian clothing—two boys in kurta-pyjamas and their daughter in a lehenga—were widely circulated in Indian media upon their arrival.
The family visited Jaipur’s historic Amer Fort on Tuesday and is scheduled to see the Taj Mahal in Agra on Wednesday before departing for the US the following day.
#WATCH | PM Modi welcomes US Vice President JD Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance and their children to his official residence at Lok Kalyan Marg in Delhi pic.twitter.com/cbKUrPsjkv
— ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2025
