Washington, Feb 13 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is embarking on a visit to the United States from February 12-13, marking his inaugural trip following President Donald Trump's re-election.

This visit underscores the significance of the India-US partnership, occurring less than a month after Trump's return to the White House.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized the importance of this visit, stating, "The Prime Minister's invitation to the US within just three weeks of the new administration taking office highlights the importance of the India-US partnership and reflects the bipartisan support this collaboration enjoys in the US."

PM Modi's arrival in Washington D.C. is scheduled for February 12 at 6 p.m. EST (4:30 a.m. IST on February 13). His agenda includes high-profile meetings with Trump, senior US officials, and notable business leaders.

PM Modi and Trump are slated to meet at the White House on February 13 at 4 p.m. EST (2:30 a.m. IST on February 14).

The discussions are anticipated to revolve around trade disputes, import tariffs, and defense collaborations. India is advocating for reduced tariffs on exports, while the US is eager to enhance sales of energy and military equipment to India.

Both leaders will also concentrate on Indo-Pacific security, counterterrorism, and investment partnerships. The meeting will be followed by a private dinner hosted by Trump, with both leaders likely to address the media in the Oval Office.

A pivotal meeting between PM Modi and Elon Musk is also in the works.

As per sources mentioned in the media, "PM Modi is expected to meet Elon Musk during his visit to the United States this week, and discussions about Starlink's entry into the South Asian market could arise."

Starlink, SpaceX's satellite broadband service, has shown interest in India's market but has encountered regulatory holdups. The Indian government has aligned with Musk's view that satellite spectrum should be assigned rather than auctioned, a position that contrasts with that of Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani.

One source familiar with the discussions stated, "Musk is open to providing assurances regarding India's security concerns, which include local data storage."

However, the license application for Starlink remains pending.

It is uncertain if Tesla's entry into India will be part of the discussions, but increasing the sourcing of electric vehicle components from India is likely to be a topic of conversation.

During his visit to the US, PM Modi will be accommodated at Blair House, the official guest residence of the US President. This prestigious stay highlights the diplomatic significance of the visit.

In addition to Trump and Musk, PM Modi is expected to engage with senior US officials and members of the Indian diaspora. Notably, his itinerary does not include meetings with other business CEOs, according to sources.

PM Modi's US trip follows a two-day visit to France, where he co-chaired the AI Action Summit with President Emmanuel Macron. The summit focused on artificial intelligence regulations, innovation, and global cooperation in emerging technologies.

Before meeting PM Modi, President Trump had already welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and Jordan's King Abdullah. This sequence of meetings underscores Washington's diplomatic priorities early in Trump's second term.

India and the US share extensive strategic interests across trade, investment, defense cooperation, and technology. This visit is expected to strengthen bilateral ties and address key policy issues that impact both nations.

During his 36-hour stay in the US, PM Modi is scheduled to participate in bilateral meetings with President Trump in both restricted and delegation-level formats.

During the US visit, PM Modi is set to engage in a total of six bilateral meetings within the span of his 36-hour trip to the US.