US VP Vance begins pivotal India visit, seeks trade agreement

U.S. Vice President JD Vance is making a four-day official visit to India, meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to focus on deepening economic and strategic ties, particularly through the negotiation of a bilateral trade agreement. The visit, which includes high-level delegations from both nations, comes amid ongoing global tariff tensions and the Trump administration's recent pause on new tariffs affecting India. Indian officials and commentators have highlighted the importance of this engagement, viewing it as a critical opportunity to advance bilateral cooperation and address mutual concerns such as tariffs, trade barriers, and regional security. The visit is also notable for the participation of Vance's Indian-origin wife, Usha, underscoring the personal and diplomatic significance of the trip. Meanwhile, opposition voices in India are urging Modi to raise issues related to the treatment of Indian citizens in the U.S. and concerns about the impact of trade liberalization on domestic industries. Both sides are expected to review the outcomes of past joint statements and discuss regional and global developments of mutual interest.