All you need to know about JD Vance’s India visit with family this week | World News
US Vice President JD Vance is set to embark on a four-day official visit to India starting Monday, marking a diplomatic mission aimed at strengthening economic, trade, and strategic relations between the two nations. With growing global tensions, particularly in the US-China trade war, the visit is crucial as both India and the US seek to solidify their partnership in the Indo-Pacific region.During his visit, Vance will meet with Prime Miner Narendra Modi for high-level talks on expanding bilateral trade, economic cooperation, and enhancing regional security ties. This visit is also seen as part of the ongoing diplomatic efforts to finalise a trade agreement between the two countries.
The diplomatic relationship between India and the US has strengthened under Prime Miner Modi and President Trump. The two leaders have established a strong rapport, particularly in areas like defense cooperation and countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific. Modi’s visit to the US earlier emphasised the “mega partnership” between the two countries.
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Bilateral trade deal
The US is India’s largest trading partner, and both countries are actively negotiating a new trade deal aimed at addressing tariff issues, market access, and the broader trade deficit. The US had previously imposed tariffs on Indian goods, but negotiations are ongoing to smooth over these issues and boost trade in key sectors such as defense, energy, and technology.
India is keen on securing favourable terms to enhance its exports, especially in agriculture, auto components, and pharmaceuticals, while the US seeks greater market access for its agricultural and dairy products. Both nations are working towards an ambitious target of doubling bilateral trade to $500 billion 2030.
Vance’s cultural itinerary
This visit holds personal significance for Vice President Vance, whose wife, Usha Vance, is of Indian origin. Usha’s parents immigrated to the US in the late 1970s, and Vance has often spoken about his admiration for his wife’s heritage.
Upon their arrival in New Delhi on Monday morning, Vance and his family will visit the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple. Following this, the Vance family is scheduled to visit a shopping complex featuring traditional Indian handcrafted goods, where they will explore India’s vibrant craft and textile industries.Story continues below this ad
In addition to their stay in New Delhi, the Second family of the US will travel to Jaipur and Agra.
In Jaipur, Vance will tour the Amer Fort. He will receive a traditional welcome, and the procession will include two elephants named Chanda and Pushpa, at the palace’s Surajpol Gate, officials said. They will also visit the Rajasthan International Centre, where Vance is scheduled to address a gathering on the broader aspects of India-US relations, particularly in the context of the Trump adminration.
The family will then visit Agra, where they will explore the Taj Mahal. “It will begin with a ceremonial welcome, likely Chief Miner Yogi Adityanath,” said an official, requesting anonymity. “It is not confirmed but we are in talks with the state government and Minry of External Affairs,” the official added.
The visit will also include a trip to Shilpgram, an open-air emporium where they will experience and purchase traditional Indian artifacts, further enriching their understanding of India’s artic heritage.Story continues below this ad
Geopolitical Implications
For India, the timing of Vance’s visit could not be more significant, as both countries are looking to counter China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. India’s participation in the Quad — a strategic alliance with the US, Japan, and Australia — has become central to maintaining balance in the region.
The Vances’ visit will conclude on April 24, after which they will return to the US.
(With inputs from PTI, AP)
