Has the India-US Trust Been Shattered? Expert Insights
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Synopsis
In a revealing interview, Mukesh Aghi, leader of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, discusses the deteriorating trust between India and the US due to trade tensions. This insightful analysis sheds light on the complexities of their relationship and the potential paths forward amidst global geopolitical dynamics.
Key Takeaways
- Trust has eroded between India and the US due to trade tensions.
- Mukesh Aghi highlights the need for dialogue to restore relationships.
- India's strategic interests remain aligned with the US despite tensions.
- The purchase of Russian oil has complicated diplomatic dynamics.
- Both nations are urged to seek mutual benefits to foster cooperation.
Washington, Sep 4 (NationPress) Mukesh Aghi, President and CEO of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), asserts that trust has been eroded between New Delhi and Washington amid ongoing bilateral trade conflicts.
In an exclusive discussion with IANS in Washington, Aghi expressed that the mood in Delhi is one of surprise, disappointment, and disbelief.
"Only a few weeks ago, the alliance was thriving, and unexpectedly it has plummeted due to the purchase of Russian oil," he remarked.
Reflecting on the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in China, Aghi noted that India's apparent outreach to Beijing and Moscow was a reaction to the US' coercive diplomacy.
"When a sovereign nation is treated with coercive tactics or threats, what options remain for that nation? In this scenario, Prime Minister Modi opted for that path," he added.
Nevertheless, he claimed that India's rapport with China is unlikely to progress significantly.
"In every facet, India and China are misaligned. India's strategic stance, economic necessities, and technological collaborations are all in sync with the US," he stated.
The Trump administration has targeted India with an additional 25% tariff on Russian oil purchases, elevating the total tariffs to 50%, a move India deems unjust and unfair.
Trump defended his actions on Wednesday against criticism regarding his response to Russia, insisting that his measures against India proved otherwise.
"If you recall, two weeks ago, I emphasized that if India purchases (Russian oil), it would face significant issues, and that is precisely what has occurred," Trump remarked.
Aghi stressed that the US's actions concerning India on Russian oil lack logic.
"Russian oil purchases were in agreement with the Biden administration. It provided price stability for Europeans and the global community. China buys more Russian oil, and Europe imports more energy from Russia. Therefore, penalizing India, a strategic ally, sends the wrong message," he articulated.
In his opinion, the Russian oil acquisition serves merely as an excuse.
"The core issue is India’s refusal to publicly acknowledge that a third party interfered in the India-Pakistan situation. This has displeased the President, who is pursuing a Nobel Prize," he observed.
Aghi acknowledged that New Delhi has displayed maturity by not reacting aggressively to US actions.
"India has remained silent and is seeking avenues to establish common ground to sustain the partnership. Thus far, we have witnessed remarkable restraint and maturity from India," he remarked.
Looking forward, Aghi is optimistic that both nations can discover an off-ramp soon.
"The off-ramp could involve direct dialogue between the leaders or India intentionally increasing purchases of US oil while reducing Russian oil purchases. It’s fundamentally about making concessions to ensure mutual benefits," he concluded.
Point of View
The ongoing tensions between India and the US highlight the complexities of international relations. As both nations navigate their strategic interests, it is crucial to approach the situation with a mindset focused on collaboration and understanding, ensuring that national interests are balanced with global diplomacy.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main issues causing tension between India and the US?
The primary issues include trade tensions, tariffs on Russian oil, and differing geopolitical strategies.
How can India and the US rebuild trust?
Rebuilding trust may involve direct dialogue, mutual concessions, and addressing key issues collaboratively.
What role does Russian oil play in the current situation?
The purchase of Russian oil has become a focal point, resulting in increased tariffs and diplomatic strain.
What is Mukesh Aghi's perspective on the relationship?
Aghi believes that trust has been broken and emphasizes the need for maturity and restraint from both sides.
What are the prospects for future cooperation?
Future cooperation may depend on both nations finding common ground and addressing trade issues effectively.
