Maya Sharma, a Bengaluru-based journalist, shares insights on India's complex relationship with the U.S. during Modi's White House visit. Hannah Lucinda-Smith discusses Turkey's ambitions for enhanced ties with Pakistan amid global tensions. Navina Kotor reviews East African news, including key headlines and regional challenges. Murdo Morrison analyzes aviation hurdles, particularly in developing sustainable aircraft, while exploring the booming K-pop industry as a potential economic counter to U.S. tariffs, showcasing unique intersections of culture and geopolitics.
Modi's visit to the White House reflects both leaders' attempts to maintain a positive relationship despite existing tensions over trade and immigration.
The strategic defense collaboration between the U.S. and India has gained importance, with significant contracts established since 2008 amid international pressures.
Turkey's strengthening ties with Pakistan during Erdogan's visit signals a shift towards increased cooperation in defense, posing challenges for India's foreign policy.
Deep dives
Modi's Visit to Trump: A Delicate Balance
Narendra Modi’s visit to Donald Trump signifies an effort to maintain the positive rapport established during Trump's first term despite existing tensions. Both leaders share a history of amicable interactions, but the uncertainty of Trump's second term raises questions about the stability of U.S.-India relations. Major concerns include trade tariffs imposed by Trump and the deportation of illegal Indian immigrants, which have sparked backlash in India. Despite these challenges, both leaders aim to leverage their personal rapport to navigate these contentious issues.
The Focus on Trade Tariffs and Defense Contracts
Trade negotiations, particularly regarding tariffs, dominate discussions during Modi's visit, with India facing potential tariffs on significant exports. Trump’s insistence on reducing the trade deficit with India places additional pressure on Modi, as he seeks to balance this with India's energy requirements, which have recently shifted towards more Russian oil. However, defense collaboration between the U.S. and India has flourished, with over $20 billion in contracts since 2008. This aspect of the relationship may become increasingly important as both leaders pursue mutually beneficial agreements.
Evolving Foreign Relations Amid Stagnation
Modi's foreign policy has taken a more transactional approach, reflecting a shift in global geopolitics since Trump’s first administration. While India has continued strengthening ties with the U.S., it has also started importing more Russian oil amidst global sanctions following the Ukraine invasion. Trump’s desire for India to pivot more towards U.S. energy sources may clash with India's current strategy, emphasizing a need for sound negotiation during discussions. As both leaders navigate these new dynamics, their shared populist leadership style may facilitate finding common ground.
India's Position on Russia Uncertain
India's reluctance to condemn Russia's actions in Ukraine highlights the complexity of its foreign policy strategies. Modi's government has maintained a delicate balance of relationship with both the West and Russia, aiming to retain diplomatic ties while also satisfying international pressures. Trump’s nonchalance towards India's stance on Russia can provide an unexpected opportunity for Modi to fortify this relationship without facing immediate ramifications from the U.S. This backdrop has the potential to shape future collaborations between the countries, especially in resisting Western pressures.
Turkey-Pakistan Relations Under Scrutiny
The Turkish President's visit to Pakistan is poised to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between the two Muslim nations. Both countries are currently seeking mutual benefits amid a backdrop of geopolitical tensions, with defense cooperation likely to expand during this visit. This growing alignment can be seen as a counterbalance against Western hegemony, especially amid concerns over military embargos and trade tensions. India is closely monitoring these developments, particularly due to the historical context of Turkey's support for Pakistan regarding the Kashmir issue.
As Narendra Modi becomes the fourth head of state to visit the White House during Donald Trump’s second term, Maya Sharma and Natasha Lindstaedt discuss the tensions that lie beneath the bonhomie. Then: Turkey’s president goes to Pakistan and the Munich Security Conference begins. Also on the programme: could K-Pop be South Korea’s secret weapon against Trump’s trade war? Plus: we speak with Rainer Stampfer, president of global operations at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.