US Vice President JD Vance and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met on Tuesday to discuss how the United States could support India in diversifying its energy sources, particularly through investments in US nuclear technology, according to the White House.
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT
This discussion took place in Paris, where both leaders were attending an artificial intelligence summit, just ahead of Modi’s upcoming US visit. During the visit, topics like trade, investment, technology, and immigration are expected to be on the agenda.
Earlier this month, India proposed changes to its nuclear liability law to encourage foreign and private investments in its nuclear sector. Experts believe Washington views India as a strategic counter to China’s growing global influence.
KEY QUOTE
According to the White House, Modi and Vance “discussed topics of mutual interest, including how the United States can assist India in diversifying its energy sourcing through investments in clean, reliable US nuclear technology.”
In a post on X, Modi mentioned that he and Vance “had a great conversation on various subjects.”
CONTEXT
India’s Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, had previously hindered the implementation of a nuclear deal with the US, which involved US power plant makers like General Electric and Westinghouse.
RECENT CALL AND TRUMP COMMENTS
In January, Modi and former President Donald Trump had a phone call in which Trump highlighted the importance of India purchasing more American-made security equipment and progressing towards a fairer trade relationship. Despite past warm ties between Modi and Trump, during his re-election campaign, Trump criticized India’s trade practices and threatened tariffs on BRICS nations, including India, if they did not agree to his currency-related demands.
India is now considering tariff cuts in multiple sectors to boost US exports, and Modi may also propose increased imports of US energy and defense products.
