PM Narendra Modi likely to visit US next month for UNGA, bilateral talks with President Trump amid tariff row

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit the United States next month to attend the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. According to reports, the visit could also feature a high-profile bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump, aimed at addressing escalating trade disputes between the two nations.
A Crucial Visit Amid Trade Tensions
While the meeting with President Trump is yet to be officially confirmed, diplomatic sources indicate that trade and tariff issues will be at the forefront of discussions. The US recently imposed a 25% reciprocal tariff on Indian goods, later raising tariffs to 50% on imports of Russian oil a move that has impacted Indian trade interests. Negotiations are ongoing, and this potential meeting could be pivotal in finding common ground to reshape India-US economic ties.
Significance in the Current Geopolitical Climate
This visit gains added importance given recent tensions in India-US relations. Earlier this year, President Trump claimed to have brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan an assertion firmly denied by New Delhi. The situation further intensified after Pakistan Army chief Gen Asim Munir reportedly made nuclear threat remarks, prompting swift diplomatic responses from the United States.
US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce reassured that America’s relationship with both India and Pakistan “remains unchanged” and highlighted past diplomatic interventions that successfully prevented potential conflicts.
UNGA 80: A Platform for Global Dialogue
The 80th UNGA session will be held from September 9 to 23, 2025, with the High-Level General Debate taking place from September 23 to 27 and concluding on September 29. This annual gathering brings together leaders from all 193 UN member states to address pressing global challenges.
PM Modi’s participation will include not only addressing the General Assembly but also engaging in key bilateral meetings. Recently, he spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, with Zelensky indicating that a personal meeting is planned for September during UNGA.
Building Diplomatic Bridges
PM Modi and President Trump last met in February 2025 during the Indian leader’s previous US visit. Preparations for this upcoming trip are expected to be finalized by the end of August. If confirmed, the visit could serve as a turning point for trade negotiations while also reinforcing India’s strategic role in international diplomacy.