At a Chatham House event, India’s EAM S. Jaishankar discussed the favorable alignment of Trump administration policies with Indian interests. He highlighted ongoing trade negotiations and clarified India’s position on various international issues, including relationships with China and responses to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, articulated that many policies initiated by the Trump administration align positively with India’s interests. Speaking at a Chatham House event in London, he noted that both nations are currently engaged in negotiating a bilateral trade agreement, particularly in light of President Trump’s intention to impose reciprocal tariffs starting April 2. This situation raises concerns regarding potential trade wars that could adversely affect the global economy.
Jaishankar highlighted several priorities of President Trump that are favorable to India, including consistent and affordable energy prices, development emphasis, leveraging technology as a pivotal factor, and fostering collaborative connectivity initiatives. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the United States, both parties discussed trade topics, leading to an agreement on the necessity of a bilateral trade agreement being prioritized in ongoing negotiations led by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.
In reflecting on foreign policy, Jaishankar remarked on the strong potential in the relationship with the US, particularly the administration’s movement towards a multipolar world structure, which he posited as beneficial for India. Addressing misconceptions, he clarified that the Brics nations are not collectively aiming to supplant the US dollar for trade, as India does not pursue such a policy. Instead, India’s focus remains on strengthening the global economic system in collaboration with the US, while increasing the international use of the rupee to facilitate global trade.
In discussing India-China relations, Jaishankar emphasized New Delhi’s aspiration for a mutual respect of interests and sensitivities following recent disengagement efforts in the Ladakh region. He affirmed that following the troop disengagement last October, discussions between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping aimed at reviving mechanisms to support normalized relations and address border disputes are ongoing. He expressed hope for a more predictable and stable future in bilateral relations.
Regarding the Russia-Ukraine situation, Jaishankar dismissed suggestions for India’s involvement in mediating peace discussions. He pointed out that India has expressed specific concerns to both Moscow and Kyiv, highlighting the need for direct negotiations between involved parties. Finally, on the Israel-Hamas conflict, Jaishankar asserted that leadership in finding a sustainable resolution must primarily come from the Middle Eastern countries and the US, while India maintains an objective stance, advocating for peace and humanitarian considerations in the region.
In summary, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar underscores India’s favorable position in relation to the Trump administration’s priorities, highlighting ongoing negotiations for a trade agreement. He affirms India’s commitment to working bilaterally with the United States while clarifying positions on regional conflicts. The necessity of mutual respect in international relations is emphasized, particularly regarding India-China dynamics, and an objective stance is maintained towards the complexities of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
