Piyush Goyal: Trump is a Close Ally of India and PM Modi, No Concerns Anticipated
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New Delhi, Nov 28 (NationPress) Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal has labeled US President-elect Donald Trump as a friend of India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He stated on Thursday that New Delhi is eager to bolster the economic collaboration between the two nations as soon as the new administration assumes office in Washington next month.
Goyal remarked, “Mr. Trump is a friend of India, is a friend of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and I'm sure this friendship will only continue to blossom and grow further, as is evident from the various comments he (Trump) has made so far.”
Trump, who appointed Howard Lutnick, the Chairman and CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, as his nominee for Secretary of Commerce on November 19, has committed to strengthening the “great partnership” with India and Modi during his second term.
Nevertheless, during his election campaign, Trump mentioned that India was one of the nations that exploited the US, labeling it a “very big abuser” in trade.
He has threatened to impose high tariffs on imports, particularly as a counteraction for elevated tariffs imposed by other nations—a decision that could impact India.
Despite this, Goyal attempted to mitigate concerns regarding Trump's previous remarks, stating, “I think we need not jump the gun and let the new government take charge and express their formal and official views. But, to the best of my understanding of the situation, and my own experience working with the Trump administration and India's past experience, I do not foresee any problem whatsoever.”
Despite some trade differences, the US leader and Modi have cultivated a strong personal connection over the years.
In September, Trump referred to Modi as a “fantastic man” during a town hall meeting in Michigan.
Goyal added, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the world's most popular leader today, has managed India's international global relationships better than ever in the past. He has worked with three administrations in the US. Over this 10-year period, our relations with the United States have got better and better every single year.”
Goyal continued, “As Mr. Trump has himself on record said 'my good friend, Mr. Modi', the confidence he has in the India relationship, India partnership, has been expressed on many occasions. I'm looking forward to working with my counterpart in the United States once the confirmation processes are over and the new government takes charge. I'm sure we'll start discussing how to further strengthen our economic partnership.”
Earlier this month, Modi was among the first global leaders to commend Trump on his election victory, emphasizing his eagerness to renew collaboration with the leader to enhance the India-US Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership.
Modi stated, “Had a great conversation with my friend, President Donald Trump, congratulating him on his spectacular victory. Looking forward to working closely together once again to further strengthen India-US relations across technology, defence, energy, space and several other sectors.”
