The Playbook Podcast February 13, 2025: Why the Trump-Modi meeting matters
Feb 13, 2025
Phelim Kine, POLITICO’s expert on U.S.-China relations, delves into the high-stakes meeting between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi. They discuss crucial topics like tariffs and immigration, revealing the complexities of U.S.-India relations amid rising Chinese influence. Kine highlights how this partnership could shift global dynamics, particularly concerning India's strategic stance within the Quad alliance. The conversation also touches on the implications for the House GOP’s budget plans and the intricate balance of trade and humanitarian issues at play.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Trump-Modi Meeting Focus
- President Trump and Prime Minister Modi have a good relationship, but trade and tariffs are key issues.
- Trump wants India to lower tariffs on U.S. products and buy more, especially defense equipment.
India's Tariff Strategy
- India needs to offer tariff reductions to avoid potential U.S. retaliation.
- Modi understands the economic risks if Trump imposes tariffs, as India's average tariffs are much higher than those of the U.S.
U.S.-China-India Dynamics
- The U.S. views India as a partner to counter China, but India balances its relationships with China and Russia.
- India is part of the Quad security grouping, but it avoids aligning too closely with the U.S.