Will PM Modi Visit US for September UNGA and Meet Donald Trump? Speculation Intensifies
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit the United States in September 2025 to attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and hold talks with US President Donald Trump, according to multiple media reports.
Citing sources, News reported that the visit is expected, with discussions between the two leaders likely to focus on trade issues amid a downturn in bilateral ties.
The Indian Express stated that preparations are underway for the Prime Minister’s visit in the last week of September, ostensibly for the UNGA in New York, but with the key objective of meeting Trump to resolve differences over tariffs and potentially announce a trade deal.
Both countries had earlier agreed to work on increasing market access, reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers, and deepening supply chain integration, but negotiations have reportedly stalled.
As per the report, India has already reached out to the UN headquarters to secure a speaking slot for PM Modi, scheduled for the morning of September 26. Trump is expected to address the UNGA on September 23.
Apart from meeting Trump, PM Modi may also hold talks with other world leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Last year, despite an initial speaking slot being booked for him, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar represented India at the UNGA in the Prime Minister’s place.
The visit, if confirmed, would take place against the backdrop of fresh trade tensions. Last week, the White House announced an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports, raising the total to 50%. Trump said the move was in response to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil. The additional tariffs are set to take effect on August 27.
India has dismissed the measures as a “reckless tariff tirade,” maintaining its trade relations with Moscow and accusing Washington of “double standards.”
Despite its tough rhetoric, the US continues to import Russian chemicals and fertilisers. In a twist, on August 6, Trump claimed he had “no knowledge” of such imports, shortly after India alleged that the US still buys uranium hexafluoride for its nuclear industry, along with fertilisers and other chemicals, from Russia.
