NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit New York in September to attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), even as tensions rise between India and the United States over increased trade tariffs.
According to the provisional list of speakers for the high-level General Debate of the UNGA’s 80th session, India’s Head of Government is scheduled to address the assembly on the morning of September 26, reported PTI. Leaders from Israel, China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are also slated to speak that day.
If confirmed, the visit would come amid a growing diplomatic rift sparked by US President Donald Trump’s decision to raise tariffs on Indian imports to 50%. The move follows India’s continued purchases of Russian crude oil, which Trump alleges have helped fuel Russia’s war in Ukraine.
On August 6, Trump announced an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods — doubling the rate set earlier this year. The US administration has also penalized India for its acquisition of Russian military equipment, with Trump signing an executive order citing threats to US national security. The new tariffs are set to take effect on August 27, leaving a narrow window for potential negotiations.
India reacted sharply to the announcement. The Ministry of External Affairs called the tariffs “unfortunate,” asserting that India will act in its own national interest. “It is extremely unfortunate that the US has chosen to impose additional tariffs on India for actions that many other countries are also undertaking in pursuit of their sovereign interests,” the MEA said in a strongly worded statement.
Despite the tensions, a US trade delegation is expected to visit India before August 25, potentially laying the groundwork for dialogue ahead of the tariff implementation.
Meanwhile, President Trump is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on August 15 in Alaska, marking Putin’s first visit to the US in a decade. The two leaders are expected to discuss possible resolutions to the ongoing war in Ukraine. “We have a shot,” Trump said in a Truth Social post, expressing cautious optimism about reaching a peace deal.
The 80th UN General Assembly session officially opens on September 9, with the high-level debate running from September 23 to 29. As per tradition, Brazil will speak first, followed by the United States. Trump will deliver his address to world leaders on September 23, marking his first speech at the UN in his second term.
