Modi, Trump Forge 'Mega Partnership' Amid Trade Tensions

Modi, Trump Forge 'Mega Partnership' Amid Trade Tensions
Above: Trump and Modi meet in the Oval Office at the White House on Feb. 13, 2025. Image copyright: Andrew Harnik/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images

The Spin

Narrative A

The US-India partnership represents a strategic alignment of mutual interests, with both nations working to counter China's influence while strengthening defense, energy, and economic ties. The agreements on F-35 fighters, energy trade, and infrastructure development demonstrate a deepening alliance between the world's largest democracies.

Narrative B

The meeting's timing and Modi's conciliatory approach suggest India's vulnerability to Trump's tariff threats, with the trade deficit remaining a significant point of contention. The rushed concessions on motorcycle tariffs and acceptance of deported migrants indicate India's compromised position in negotiations.

Metaculus Prediction



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