New Delhi, August 13, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 26, according to a provisional speakers’ list released by the UN. The high-level General Debate will run from September 23 to 29, with Brazil delivering the opening statement, followed by US President Donald Trump.
This year’s session takes place amid escalating global tensions, including the Israel-Hamas war and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The UNGA’s formal opening on September 9 will mark the start of what diplomats describe as the busiest period for international diplomacy.
President Trump, now in his second term, will speak on September 23 in his first UN address since returning to office. His remarks are expected to highlight his claimed role in brokering peace agreements across multiple regions, including Armenia-Azerbaijan, Cambodia-Thailand, Israel-Iran, Rwanda-DR Congo, Egypt-Ethiopia, and Serbia-Kosovo. He has also taken credit for easing the May conflict between India and Pakistan.
For India, Modi’s UNGA appearance comes amid strained trade relations with Washington. During a February visit to the US, Modi and Trump announced plans to negotiate the first phase of a multi-sector Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) by fall 2025. However, talks have been overshadowed by Trump’s decision to impose 50 per cent tariffs on Indian imports, including a 25 per cent levy linked to India’s continued purchases of Russian oil, set to take effect on August 27.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs condemned the tariffs as “unjustified and unreasonable,” pledging to take “all necessary measures” to protect national interests. The tariffs precede the sixth round of BTA negotiations, due to begin on August 25 in New Delhi, with both sides still aiming for a deal by late 2025.
While the UN’s speaker schedule is subject to change, Modi’s September 26 address will be closely watched for signals on India’s foreign policy and economic strategy in a challenging global environment.
