And yet the Trump-Modi conviviality and heady talk of strategic partnership may mask a sobering reality: during Modi's visit, the relationship's transactional side will come into sharp relief with each leader,

India has benefited from the decline of the U.S.-China relationship and is viewed as a possible ally in countering China’s rise politically

This "official working visit" makes Modi the fourth foreign leader to be hosted by the White House since President Donald Trump took office on January 20, 2025.