JD Vance Emphasizes Equal Partnership with India, Praises Modi’s Leadership During First Official Visit
US Vice President JD Vance, currently on a four-day visit to India, stressed that the United States is here not to dictate terms but to build a stronger partnership with India. Speaking in Jaipur on April 22, Vance remarked that previous US administrations approached India with a “preaching mindset,” but the current leadership is committed to mutual respect and collaboration.
“We’re not here to tell you how to do things,” Vance said. “Too often in the past, Washington came with that attitude. But today, we come as partners.”
The Vice President’s visit began with a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi on April 21. Accompanied by Second Lady Usha Vance, their children, and senior US officials, Vance’s tour comes at a critical time as India and the US are negotiating a comprehensive bilateral trade deal.
Speaking highly of PM Modi, Vance called him a “tough negotiator” whose leadership garners deep respect in Washington. “Modi’s popularity and strength are undeniable — I even told him I envy his approval ratings,” he said.
Vance also confirmed that both countries have finalized the terms of reference for the trade negotiations. “This is a vital step toward realizing President Trump’s and Prime Minister Modi’s shared vision for our nations,” he added.
The trade talks come amidst global tensions over tariffs, with reciprocal duties imposed by President Trump’s administration currently paused until July. A delegation from India is expected to visit Washington later this month for further discussions.
Vance defended the administration’s trade stance, stating that President Trump is not reviving outdated economic models, but rebalancing global trade in favor of mutual growth. “Critics may call it a trade war, but we see it as building a future — together with friends like India,” he said.
The US and India are also expected to strengthen cooperation in areas like defense, clean energy, and digital infrastructure. Vance reaffirmed that the US envisions a future of shared growth and strategic alignment with India.
