India expects support on Bangladesh, Pakistan; continuity on defence deals

Even as the tariff issue may be an irritant in the India-US partnership under Trump 2.0, the Donald Trump presidency is expected to allow India space in South Asia and may tone down statements on what New Delhi perceives as its internal matters.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not waste much time in congratulating Trump on his comeback as President. Describing Trump as "my friend", the prime minister posted on X, "Heartiest congratulations my friend @realDonaldTrump on your historic election victory."



"As you build on the successes of your previous term, I look forward to renewing our collaboration to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership. Together, let's work for the betterment of our people and to promote global peace, stability and prosperity," he added.

The camaraderie between Trump and Modi, which was on full display during 'Howdy, Modi!' and 'Namaste Trump', was a cornerstone of India-US relations.

Trump is not known to have major interest in Bangladesh and going by his recent statement on minority community in Bangladesh it is expected that the Trump presidency will allow India to safeguard its interest in the neighbouring country. Chief adviser of Bangladesh interim administration, Md Yunus, has been openly courted by the Clinton Foundation.


Sources here claimed that the Trump presidency might also witness limited statements on various issues which are essentially perceived as India's internal matters. Experts pointed out statements from the Biden presidency during India's election process created discomfort here. India will also keep a close watch on the Trump presidency approach on the Pannun case.

Defence collaboration has been a cornerstone of India-US relations in recent years. The landmark Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) and defence deals such as the GE-HAL agreement for manufacturing jet engines have been some of the achievements under the Biden administration. The Quad also gained momentum under the Biden presidency. These initiatives are expected to be on track.


India might also benefit from Trump's return to White House because of the fresh tariffs on China that he has already promised. This may encourage more businesses to shift their manufacturing from China to India. But Trump may also impose similar tariffs on US companies that have many IT employees in India.

Given his statements on Ukraine and his previous position on Europe's self-sufficiency in defence spending, there are expectations that the Russia-Ukraine conflict may have to be settled sooner than later. India has long sought a firmer US stance on Pakistan, particularly in addressing terrorist activities along its borders. New Delhi may get support from Trump on this.