Remarks by President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the Republic of India in Joint Press Conference – Part 1

February 13, 2025

Remarks

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Action Summary

Strengthening U.S.-India Relations: Emphasis on the historic bond between the world’s largest democracies, celebrating past visits and shared hospitality, and outlining a framework to deepen economic and strategic ties for the 21st century.
Defense and Security Cooperation:
- Increase in U.S. military sales to India by billions of dollars and paving the way for the provision of F-35 stealth fighters.
- Reinvigoration of the Quad security partnership to ensure regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.
- Agreement on a defense cooperation framework including joint development, production, technology transfer, and enhanced interoperability.
Counterterrorism and Justice:
- Announcement of extradition of a key figure linked to the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attack to face justice in India.
- Commitment to cooperation to combat radical Islamic terrorism and other groups opposed to Indian interests.
Economic and Trade Initiatives:
- Launching the U.S.-India compact to address long-running trade disparities, including negotiations to balance a nearly $100 billion trade deficit.
- Apart from tariff reductions on U.S. goods, there is an aim to double bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.
Energy and Nuclear Collaboration:
- Strengthening energy ties with plans for the U.S. to become a leading supplier of oil, gas, and LNG to India.
- Expanding cooperation in nuclear technology, including the introduction of U.S. nuclear advances and development of small modular reactors.
Technology and Innovation Partnerships:
- Joint initiatives in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum technology, biotechnology, and autonomous systems.
- Launch of TRUST (Transforming Relationships Utilizing Strategic Technology) to enhance supply chains for critical minerals, advanced materials, and pharmaceuticals.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Boost:
- Proposal for a monumental trade route connecting India, Israel, Italy, and the United States with investments in ports, railways, and undersea cables.
- Plans to accelerate energy and electric generation projects under a declared “national emergency.”
People-to-People and Diplomatic Engagement:
- Announcing new Indian consulates in Los Angeles and Boston and inviting U.S. educational institutions to expand their presence in India.
- Reinforcing cultural ties, mutual respect, and personal friendships between leaders.

Risks & Considerations

The strengthening of U.S.-India relations, particularly in defense and technology, could lead to increased collaboration opportunities for Vanderbilt University, especially in research and development in areas like artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and biotechnology.
The focus on trade and economic ties, including the reduction of tariffs and increased energy cooperation, may open new avenues for partnerships and funding opportunities for Vanderbilt, particularly in energy research and international business programs.
The emphasis on combating terrorism and enhancing security measures could impact international students and faculty from India, necessitating a review of Vanderbilt’s policies and support systems for these individuals.
The potential for U.S. universities to open offshore campuses in India presents both opportunities and challenges for Vanderbilt, as it may need to consider its own international expansion strategies and the competitive landscape.
The geopolitical focus on the Indo-Pacific region and the Quad partnership may influence Vanderbilt’s global engagement strategies, particularly in terms of research collaborations and student exchange programs with institutions in India, Australia, and Japan.

Impacted Programs

Vanderbilt School of Engineering could benefit from increased collaboration in technology and defense sectors, particularly in AI and semiconductor research.
Owen Graduate School of Management may see opportunities to expand its international business curriculum and partnerships, focusing on U.S.-India trade relations.
Vanderbilt Institute for Energy and Environment might explore new research initiatives in energy security and nuclear technology, aligning with U.S.-India energy agreements.
The Office of International Student and Scholar Services may need to enhance support for Indian students and scholars, considering the geopolitical and security implications.

Financial Impact

The potential increase in U.S.-India trade and economic cooperation could lead to new funding opportunities for research and development projects at Vanderbilt, particularly in technology and energy sectors.
Vanderbilt may need to assess the financial implications of potential offshore campus initiatives in India, including investment costs and revenue opportunities.
Changes in international trade policies and tariffs could affect the cost and availability of resources for Vanderbilt’s research and academic programs, necessitating strategic adjustments.

Relevance Score: 3 (The developments present moderate risks and opportunities, particularly in compliance, international collaboration, and strategic planning.)

Key Actions

Vanderbilt’s International Relations Department should explore opportunities for collaboration with Indian institutions, particularly in areas of technology and defense, as the U.S.-India partnership strengthens. This could include joint research initiatives and academic exchanges that align with the strategic goals of both nations.
The Office of Federal Relations should monitor developments in U.S.-India trade negotiations, especially regarding tariffs and market access, to identify potential impacts on Vanderbilt’s international programs and partnerships. Engaging with policymakers could help shape favorable outcomes for the university.
Vanderbilt’s School of Engineering should consider expanding its focus on artificial intelligence and advanced technologies, leveraging the U.S.-India collaboration in these fields. This could enhance the university’s research capabilities and attract international talent.
The Center for International Business should assess the implications of increased U.S. energy exports to India and the potential for Vanderbilt to engage in related research or educational programs, particularly in energy policy and sustainable development.
Vanderbilt’s Peabody College should evaluate the potential for establishing offshore campuses or partnerships in India, as invited by Prime Minister Modi, to expand the university’s global presence and influence.

Opportunities

The strengthening of U.S.-India ties presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Global Education Office to enhance student exchange programs and internships in India, fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.
Vanderbilt can capitalize on the focus on technology and innovation by developing partnerships with Indian tech companies and research institutions, potentially leading to joint ventures and innovation hubs.
The emphasis on defense and strategic partnerships offers an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Political Science Department to conduct research on international security and defense policy, contributing to academic discourse and policy development.
The university can position itself as a leader in discussions on global trade and economic policy by hosting conferences and workshops that address the evolving U.S.-India trade relationship and its broader implications.

Relevance Score: 4 (The announcements indicate potential for major process changes and opportunities for Vanderbilt’s international programs and partnerships.)

Average Relevance Score: 4

Timeline for Implementation

Immediate extradition: The directive to extradite the terrorist suspect is described as taking effect immediately.
Starting 2025: Increased military sales and several defense and technology initiatives are set to begin this year.
Throughout 2025: The Quad summit in India and additional collaboration measures are slated for implementation during the current year.
By 2030: A target to more than double bilateral trade to $500 billion will be pursued.
By 2047: A long-term vision for a fully developed India is outlined.

The shortest timeline is the immediate extradition measure, which qualifies as urgent.

Relevance Score: 5

Impacted Government Organizations

The White House – Office of Communications (U.S.): As the venue and organizer of the joint press conference, this office underpins the executive messaging and announcements affecting key national initiatives.
U.S. Department of Defense: Tasked with executing increased military sales to India and the potential provision of F-35 stealth fighters, reflecting a significant pivot in defense partnerships.
U.S. Department of Justice: Involved in the decision and process to extradite a terrorism suspect related to the 2008 Mumbai attack, highlighting intergovernmental law enforcement cooperation.
Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR): Engaged to address long-standing tariff issues and trade deficits with India, which are central to the new economic framework outlined at the conference.
U.S. Intelligence Community (including the Director of National Intelligence): Critical for coordinating counterterrorism efforts and addressing domestic security concerns linked to groups criticized in the discussion.
Indian Government Agencies – Ministries of Defense, External Affairs, and Commerce: Impacted by enhanced bilateral agreements ranging from increased military procurement and defense co-production to expanded consular operations in the U.S. and renewed trade negotiations.
Indian Judiciary and Law Enforcement: Set to receive the extradited suspect for trial, which underscores judicial and security cooperation between the two nations.

Relevance Score: 3 (The announcement directly impacts a range of 6–10 key agencies across both the U.S. and Indian governments.)

Responsible Officials

Lee Zeldin and his team – Mentioned in the speech as responsible for “getting the approvals in very rapid form” for certain initiatives; aside from this reference, the directives are presented as broad diplomatic announcements without further delegation to specific agency heads.

Relevance Score: 5 (These directives have significant implications for U.S. foreign policy, defense, and trade at the White House/Cabinet level.)