We See an Opportunity in the Current Situation: Jaishankar on Trump’s Tariffs
The ongoing trade tensions between India and the United States have been making headlines globally. In a recent development, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke at the Rising Bharat Summit 2025, where he shared his thoughts on the current situation with regards to the tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump. According to Jaishankar, India sees an opportunity in the current situation, rather than viewing it as a challenge.
The Trump administration has imposed 26% tariffs on India, which has led to concerns about the impact on bilateral trade relations. However, Jaishankar’s statement suggests that India is looking to engage with the US administration to negotiate a bilateral trade agreement. The External Affairs Minister emphasized that India’s strategy has been clear from the beginning – to engage with the Trump administration early on these issues and work towards a mutually beneficial agreement.
Jaishankar’s statement comes at a time when the Indian government has been actively working to diversify its trade partners and reduce its dependence on a single market. The country has been strengthening its trade ties with other nations, including the European Union, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and the Pacific Rim.
India’s decision to engage with the US administration is seen as a strategic move to improve bilateral trade relations. The country is looking to negotiate a trade agreement that benefits both parties, rather than being restricted by the tariffs imposed by the US. Jaishankar’s statement suggests that India is willing to work with the US to address the concerns of both countries and find a solution that is beneficial to both parties.
The Trump administration’s decision to impose tariffs on India has been met with criticism from various quarters. The move has been seen as a protectionist measure that is likely to harm bilateral trade relations. However, Jaishankar’s statement suggests that India is willing to engage with the US administration to find a solution that is mutually beneficial.
Jaishankar’s statement also highlights the Indian government’s commitment to improving the ease of doing business in the country. The government has been working to simplify the regulatory framework and reduce bureaucratic hurdles to attract more foreign investment. The Indian government’s efforts to improve the business environment have been recognized globally, with the country ranking 63rd in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Index in 2020.
The Indian government’s strategy to engage with the US administration is likely to pay dividends in the long run. The country is looking to strengthen its trade ties with the US, which is one of its largest trade partners. The Indian government’s efforts to improve bilateral trade relations are likely to benefit both countries, as well as the global economy as a whole.
In conclusion, Jaishankar’s statement suggests that India sees an opportunity in the current situation with regards to the tariffs imposed by the US. The country is willing to engage with the US administration to negotiate a bilateral trade agreement that benefits both parties. The Indian government’s commitment to improving the ease of doing business in the country is likely to attract more foreign investment and strengthen bilateral trade relations. As the global economy continues to evolve, India’s strategy to engage with the US administration is likely to pay dividends in the long run.
