Modi meets US tech leaders in New York for semiconductor talks

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with top US tech leaders in New York to promote India as a hub for semiconductor manufacturing and innovation. This meeting followed his attendance at the Quad summit, where he discussed global security and cooperation with leaders from the US, Australia, and Japan. Modi's discussions with 15 CEOs, including those from Google and IBM, emphasized the potential for co-development and co-production in India, aiming to enhance the country's position in the global semiconductor supply chain. The Indian government has been focusing on semiconductor manufacturing to reduce reliance on major suppliers like China and Taiwan. The recent India-US semiconductor pact is a significant step, aiming to establish a fabrication plant that will produce chips for various applications, including national security and green energy. This agreement marks India's first project with the US in this sector, highlighting the strategic importance of semiconductor technology in modern warfare and global supply chains. During his visit, Modi also addressed a rally of Indian-Americans, referring to them as 'brand ambassadors' for India and underscoring the country's role in global development and climate action. The Quad summit leaders issued a joint statement emphasizing maritime security and opposition to destabilizing actions in the Indo-Pacific region, indirectly addressing concerns about China's influence. As Modi's visit comes ahead of the US presidential elections, the absence of a meeting with former President Trump has drawn attention. The focus remains on strengthening India-US relations, particularly in technology and defense, as both nations seek to counterbalance China's growing semiconductor industry.