India Stands Firm Amidst US Trade Tariff Challenges

India has expressed confidence that its diplomatic and trade relationship with the United States will endure and progress, despite recent challenges posed by the Trump administration's decision to impose a 25% tariff on Indian goods and sanctions related to Russian oil imports. At a routine media briefing, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the resilient nature of the bilateral partnership.

The announcement of new tariffs by President Trump, coupled with sanctions on Indian companies dealing with Iran, has raised concerns about the future of India-US trade relations. However, India remains committed to pursuing a substantive agenda with the US, rooted in shared interests and democratic principles, as noted by Jaiswal.

The Indian government is currently assessing the impact of these developments, with Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal assuring parliament that every effort will be made to safeguard India's national interests. As negotiations continue toward a Bilateral Trade Agreement, set to be initiated by the end of 2025, India seeks to protect its economic sectors, such as agriculture and dairy, from undue foreign competition.

(With inputs from agencies.)