Modi to Visit U.S. for Talks with Trump Amid Deportation Controversy
NEW DELHI – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the United States on February 12-13 for discussions with former U.S. President Donald Trump, focusing on trade, defense, and technology cooperation. The visit comes just days after over 100 Indians were deported on a U.S. military plane, sparking concerns in India.
India’s Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, announced Modi’s schedule during a press conference on Friday, where he addressed questions about the recent deportations. Misri stated that U.S. officials have informed New Delhi that an additional 487 individuals, believed to be Indian nationals, face final removal orders and could be deported pending verification of their citizenship.
Over the past 16 years, more than 15,000 Indians have been repatriated from the U.S., with a peak in deportations occurring during Trump’s previous term. The latest operation used a military aircraft, which U.S. authorities deemed the fastest option. Misri explained that the U.S. classified the deportation as a “national security operation,” leading to the choice of military transport, which India accepted.
Regarding future deportations, Misri stated that India would explore feasible alternatives to military transport.
During his visit, Modi is expected to discuss key bilateral matters, including trade agreements and defense partnerships. India, a crucial U.S. strategic ally in countering China, has been advocating for an expansion of the H-1B visa program, which is widely used by Indian professionals in the technology sector.
Late last year, Trump expressed his strong support for the H-1B visa program, reaffirming its importance for skilled foreign workers. During a phone call with Modi on January 27, Trump also raised concerns about immigration policies and encouraged India to increase its purchase of American-made security equipment.
