1. Jason Miller Meets Trump
India’s lobbyist in Washington DC, Jason Miller, met with US President Donald Trump this week. Miller, a former Trump aide, shared the moment on X, calling it a “fantastic week” and praising Trump’s leadership.
2. India’s Lobbyist Contract
Miller was hired by India in April 2025 under a $1.8 million annual contract. His role includes lobbying and providing strategic counsel to strengthen India’s position in Washington DC through his firm SHW Partners.
3. Unclear Agenda of Meeting
Although Miller met Trump, it remains unclear whether India-related issues were specifically discussed. However, the timing of the meeting coincides with efforts between India and the US to address recent tensions and maintain stable relations.
4. Trump’s Mixed Remarks on India
Earlier this week, Trump said he would “always be friends with Modi” and praised India’s leadership, but expressed dissatisfaction over India’s energy imports from Russia, signaling occasional friction despite the strong bilateral relationship.
5. Modi’s Positive Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded by appreciating Trump’s comments. He emphasized the strength of the India-US partnership, calling it “positive and forward-looking,” and highlighting the countries’ comprehensive and global strategic collaboration on multiple fronts.
6. Miller’s Political Background
Jason Miller was a prominent figure in Trump’s 2016, 2020, and 2024 election campaigns. Initially considered for White House Communications Director, he withdrew due to a personal scandal but remained a trusted Trump loyalist.
7. Scope of SHW Partners’ Work
Miller’s firm SHW Partners will handle strategic counsel, government relations, and policy advocacy for India. Their responsibilities include engagement with Congress, state governments, think tanks, and academic institutions in the United States.
8. Lobbying as Common Practice
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, hiring lobbying firms in Washington is a decades-old practice. Successive governments have used such services, particularly during key moments like the 2007 Nuclear Deal negotiations with the US.
9. Transparency of Lobbying Engagements
Randhir Jaiswal, MEA Spokesperson, clarified that all lobbying contracts are publicly available. These engagements are not unusual, as many embassies and organizations employ firms in Washington DC to strengthen diplomatic and policy advocacy efforts.
10. Global Political Context
The meeting comes amid global shifts, including US concerns over India-Russia energy ties. It also highlights how lobbying and personal networks remain key in managing complex foreign relations between India, the US, and other global powers.
Conclusion
Jason Miller’s meeting with Trump underscores the vital role of lobbying in India-US relations. While uncertainties remain about the issues discussed, both governments continue to reaffirm their strong strategic partnership, balancing challenges like Russia ties with long-term cooperation.
