PM Modi meets US delegation led by Walter Russell Mead to boost ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with a US delegation of thinkers and business leaders led by Walter Russell Mead, a prominent fellow at the Hudson Institute, on October 7, 2025. The meeting aimed to enhance bilateral relations, with Modi emphasizing the significance of their role in “strengthening India-US ties and advancing our partnership for global peace, progress and prosperity,” reports 24brussels.

In a post on X, Modi expressed his satisfaction with the discussions, stating, “Glad to interact with a US delegation of thinkers and business leaders led by Mr. Walter Russell Mead. Value their contribution in strengthening India-US ties and advancing our partnership for global peace, progress and prosperity.”

The Prime Minister’s comments underscored the ongoing collaboration between India and the United States, highlighting their commitment to mutual growth and stability on the global stage. Complementing Modi’s remarks, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal reiterated that the Indian government actively engages with the United States concerning the proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). However, he refrained from providing a specific timeline for the negotiations, stating that discussions are ongoing and not constrained by deadlines.

Goyal remarked, “Our talks with the United States are ongoing continuously. Contacts are maintained at different levels. We never negotiate based on deadlines. The possibilities are full. Every possibility exists. Currently, the US government is in shutdown mode. In light of that, we’ll have to see how, where, and when the talks can take place,” while addressing reporters during his visit to Qatar.

On the subject of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations with the European Union, Goyal noted positive discussions taking place in Brussels, expressing optimism regarding the potential for a significant partnership. He characterized this collaboration as a synergy between the €20 trillion European Union of 27 countries and India, the world’s fastest-growing large economy.

“We are hoping to work together in a spirit of deep understanding of each other’s sensitivities so that we can conclude a very equitable, fair, and balanced free trade agreement,” Goyal stated. He also highlighted the complementary strengths of both regions, pointing to India’s youthful and skilled workforce alongside the EU’s innovation and technological frameworks.

He emphasized, “Our young, talented, and skilled population is a great resource for the European Union, which needs talented young people. The innovation and technology base that the European Union has holds tremendous potential for Indian businesses.” He added that the cooperation would enable both EU and Indian companies to leverage their respective strengths in serving global markets.

Goyal further indicated that following the current round of talks, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal would travel to Brussels to meet with his counterpart by the end of the week to discuss subsequent steps. Additionally, he addressed the India-Qatar partnership, revealing that India and Qatar are pursuing third-country projects in collaboration.

He noted, “The Qatar government is also looking at third-country projects for which, as they inform me, the Qatar Development Bank is willing to give guarantees for financing. Indian businesses should seriously consider such guaranteed financing for partnering with Qatari businesspersons in third countries.”