NEW YORK – In a meeting that underscores the growing strategic and economic ties between India and the United States, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and tech magnate Elon Musk engaged in extensive discussions focused on enhancing technological collaboration between the two nations. The talks, held in New York on Tuesday, centered on potential investments, innovation, and the expansion of Musk’s ventures, including Tesla and SpaceX, within India.
The meeting, held on the sidelines of Modi’s state visit to the United States, highlighted the shared interest in leveraging technology to drive economic growth and address global challenges. Both leaders emphasized the importance of fostering an environment conducive to innovation and investment, particularly in sectors like electric vehicles, space exploration, and digital infrastructure.
Musk, who has previously expressed interest in expanding Tesla’s presence in India, reiterated his commitment to exploring potential manufacturing and investment opportunities. He acknowledged the significant market potential of India and the country’s growing emphasis on sustainable energy solutions.
“We had a very good conversation,” Musk told reporters after the meeting. “I am incredibly excited about the future of India. India has more promise than any large country in the world. He’s really pushing us to make significant investments in India, which is something we intend to do.”
Image source: X/@narendramodi
Discussions also touched upon SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service, which has the potential to bridge the digital divide in remote and underserved areas of India. Modi emphasized the importance of ensuring affordable and reliable internet access for all citizens, particularly in rural regions.
“Prime Minister Modi and I had a very good conversation about technology and investment,” Musk said. “He’s very keen to have us invest significantly in India, and that’s something that we plan to do. We’re trying to figure out the right timing.”
The Modi-Musk meeting reflects the broader strategic partnership between India and the United States, which has increasingly focused on technology and innovation. Both countries recognize the importance of collaboration in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and space exploration.
The Indian government’s “Make in India” initiative, aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing and attracting foreign investment, has been a key factor in attracting interest from global tech companies like Tesla. Modi’s emphasis on streamlining regulations and improving the ease of doing business has also played a significant role.
The meeting underscores the growing importance of the India-US tech corridor, with both nations seeking to leverage their respective strengths to drive innovation and address global challenges. As India continues its rapid economic development and the United States seeks to diversify its supply chains, the potential for further collaboration in the technology sector remains significant.