**Trump and Modi Set to Discuss Trade and Visas in Washington Talks**

Upcoming talks between President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are anticipated to highlight issues of trade, tariffs, and visas, amidst a foundation of established camaraderie and strategic partnership against China.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi gears up for his visit to Washington to meet with President Donald Trump, the agenda is set to revolve around pivotal topics such as trade, tariffs, and visa policies. The relationship between the two leaders has been a blend of personal rapport, characterized by warmth and humor, but there are substantive issues to tackle as they meet.

Since their first encounter in Washington back in 2017, Modi and Trump have cultivated a relationship marked by mutual interests, particularly in countering China's growing influence in the region. Despite Trump's frequent criticisms towards India in broader contexts, his specific focus has remained on fostering a working relationship with Modi.

During the upcoming meeting, Modi is expected to engage in discussions that will aim to enhance the US-India strategic partnership further. Details on economic collaboration are pivotal, especially as Modi is slated to meet various members of Trump's cabinet and significant Indian-American business leaders, with the potential of a meeting with Elon Musk to discuss advancements in electric vehicle technology.

Modi's visit intends to maintain momentum within the US-India relationship but also brings forth the transactional dynamics that could define their discussions. The Indian government has already indicated its readiness to engage on issues like lowering tariffs and addressing the status of undocumented Indian immigrants in the US, as part of preemptive measures aimed at easing potential demands from Trump.

Trump's administration has expressed interest in reducing the US trade deficit with India, which has recently neared $46 billion. In this regard, tariffs could become a central talking point, with possible requests for more reductions from Modi. Conversely, Modi might propose bilateral agreements to negotiate tariff reductions comprehensively.

The issue of immigration, particularly concerning the H-1B visa program, is also slated for discussion. With a significant number of Indian IT professionals benefiting from these visas, Modi may advocate for their continuation amidst criticisms from some factions within Trump's support base.

On energy matters, Modi might seek to attract more investment into India's nuclear energy sector, potentially striking a balance between cleaner energy options while also appealing for increased purchases of American oil. Current geopolitical dynamics, particularly following fluctuations in global oil markets post the Ukraine conflict, add complexity to this dialogue.

Additionally, technology cooperation remains a high priority for both nations, especially in the context of the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET), which is aimed at strengthening defense and technological ties.

The conversations may also extend into foreign policy arenas, including the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, where Modi's stance could align with Trump’s preferences for resolution without overt partisan critique. Modi's involvement could position him as a potential mediator if agreeable from all parties.

Despite the weight of these discussions, both Modi and Trump will likely focus on sustaining a positive atmosphere, particularly around initiatives like the Indo-Pacific Quad, which emphasizes a united front against Beijing. With this backdrop, Modi is expected to extend an invitation for Trump to attend the upcoming Quad meeting in Delhi, an opportunity Trump is likely to embrace given his favorable view of Indian leadership.

These meetings will surely define the future trajectory of US-India relations well beyond mere transactional engagement but will also mold their respective stances in the global landscape.