US Vice President's Upcoming India Visit Amidst Trade Tensions

US Vice President JD Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance are set to visit India amidst rising trade tensions. The trip, Vance's second international visit as VP, follows tough tariff negotiations between the two countries, as highlighted by White House remarks on India's tariffs on American products.

US Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to visit India later this month with Second Lady Usha Vance, as reported by Politico. This marks Vance's second overseas trip in his vice-presidential tenure, following his recent visit to France and Germany. Notably, Usha Vance has Indian heritage, with her parents having emigrated to the United States from India.

The visit comes at a pivotal time, with the US and India embroiled in challenging tariff negotiations. In a statement on Tuesday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt expressed concerns over tariffs imposed by various nations, including India, on American goods. Leavitt highlighted India's high tariffs on American alcohol and agricultural products, emphasizing the current administration's commitment to protecting American business interests.

Earlier this year, in February, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Vice President Vance and his family during the AI summit in Paris. The meeting was a celebratory occasion, marking the birthday of Vance's son, Vivek. Prime Minister Modi expressed delight in joining the family celebration and noted a productive conversation with the Vance family. A notable gift exchange also occurred; Modi gifted a sustainable wooden alphabet set to Vance's daughter, underscoring a theme of environmental conservation.

(With inputs from agencies.)