Jaishankar Highlights U.S. Trade Policies and Diplomatic…

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the advantages of the Trump administration’s trade policies for India and ongoing negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement. He addressed issues concerning India-China relations and clarified India’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the Israel-Hamas issue, emphasizing the need for diplomatic engagement and stability in global affairs.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the favorable trade conditions for India resulting from the Trump administration’s approach during an event at Chatham House in London. His comments come in light of President Trump’s anticipated implementation of reciprocal tariffs starting April 2, raising concerns over potential trade wars impacting the global economy.

Jaishankar emphasized that several of Trump’s priorities align with Indian interests, noting the commitment to affordable energy prices, development emphasis, technological advancements, and collaborative connectivity initiatives. He mentioned that trade discussions had progressed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the United States, with negotiations currently underway in Washington led by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.

The Minister expressed optimism regarding the evolving U.S. foreign policy, stating, “When I look at our interests and our expectations of the relationship, there is a lot of promise that we see there.” He characterized the U.S. shift toward multipolarity as beneficial for India. Furthermore, he clarified misconceptions about the BRICS nations’ mutual agreement to replace the U.S. dollar in trade settlements, reiterating that India does not advocate for such a policy.

Jaishankar highlighted India’s intention to strengthen the international financial and economic system in cooperation with the U.S., while also promoting the global use of the Indian rupee for facilitating international transactions.

On the topic of India-China relations, Jaishankar described India’s objective for a mutually respectful relationship amid ongoing discussions to stabilize ties following the military standoff on the Line of Actual Control. He noted the importance of respecting mutual sensitivities and interests as India and China strive for normalization.

The resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage and direct flights were mentioned as steps toward a more stable bilateral relationship, as both nations work to restore predictability post-2020 tensions.

Jaishankar dismissed any potential Indian involvement in mediating the Russia-Ukraine conflict while underlining New Delhi’s communication with both Moscow and Kyiv regarding humanitarian issues. He advocated for direct negotiations between the two countries for an effective resolution.

Regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict, Jaishankar emphasized that Middle Eastern countries and the U.S. should lead in finding a stable solution. With over 10 million Indians in the region and trade exceeding $100 billion, he affirmed India’s balanced stance against terrorism while pressing for adherence to humanitarian law, relief efforts in Gaza, and support for a two-state solution.

In summary, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar acknowledged the favorable implications of the Trump administration’s trade policies for India while engaging in significant discussions on bilateral ties. Efforts to normalize India-China relations, the importance of a stable Middle East, and India’s role in international diplomacy further illustrate India’s commitment to promoting its national interests while navigating complex geopolitical dynamics. The optimistic outlook on U.S.-India relations and the desire for collaborative progress underscore a strategic alignment benefitting both nations.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com