Controversial Remarks: Piyush Goyal's Take on India-ASEAN Trade Agreements Sparks Debate

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal's recent remarks at the India Global Forum in London, referring to the India-ASEAN trade agreements as 'silly' and labeling ASEAN countries as a 'B team of China,' have sparked considerable backlash. The Congress party, in particular, has strongly condemned the statement.

Congress spokesperson Anand Sharma described Goyal's comments as 'irresponsible and insulting,' noting the importance of the long-standing strategic ties between India and the ASEAN countries, which are crucial to the region's economic and geo-strategic landscape.

Sharma underscored the economic benefits derived from these agreements, pointing out that ASEAN is India's fourth-largest trading partner. He urged the government to strengthen international trade relationships and warned against exclusionary policies that could harm India's global standing.

(With inputs from agencies.)