Trump Accuses India of Unfair Trade Practices
In a fiery statement, US President Donald Trump claims that India has offered to eliminate tariffs completely, but he still denounces the current trade situation as “a totally one sided disaster”.
US Tariffs Spark Tensions with India
Following the implementation of 50% tariffs on goods from India, including a 25% penalty for Delhi’s continued oil purchases from Russia, tensions between the two countries have escalated.
Delhi-Washington Relations Strained
The ongoing dispute over Russian oil has pushed diplomatic relations between India and the US to an all-time low, with Trump accusing India of indirectly funding Russia’s activities in Ukraine.
India Stands Firm
Despite Trump’s criticism, India has defended its energy and military ties with Russia, stating that the tariffs imposed by the US are “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable”.
India’s Response to Trade Conflict
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal asserts that India will not back down or appear weak in its economic partnerships, and is open to free-trade agreements with other nations.
Trump’s Criticism of India’s Trade Practices
Trump claims that the trade relationship with India has been one-sided for decades, with India benefiting more from exports to the US. He calls for India to reduce tariffs and balance the trade deficit.
SCO Summit and Diplomatic Interactions
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s interactions with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin at the SCO summit show a shift in global alliances, challenging US dominance.
Modi’s Meeting with Putin
Modi and Putin shared a private meeting during the summit, with Modi later describing the exchange as “insightful”. The meeting further emphasizes India’s strategic partnerships with Russia.
Future of US-India Trade Relations
The impact of US tariffs on India’s economy and exports remains uncertain, as both countries navigate through a tense trade dispute while attempting to maintain diplomatic relations.
