New Delhi, Feb 3 (NationPress) Dr. Deepak Vohra, the former Indian Ambassador to Poland, referred to the India-US trade agreement as a monumental diplomatic victory. He emphasized India's patience, strategic restraint, and strong defense of essential domestic sectors during the negotiation process, labeling it the 'father of all deals'.

In an exclusive interview with IANS regarding the agreement, Dr. Vohra pointed out several crucial insights from this development. He remarked that the American political sphere had been notably critical of India in recent years, yet New Delhi exhibited remarkable restraint.

“The initial insight is that despite ongoing criticism from American officials since 2023 and 2024, India has maintained its composure. We have displayed significant patience and resilience,” he stated.

Discussing India's diplomatic tactics, Dr. Vohra introduced the term 'duck diplomacy'. This concept illustrates a serene exterior while vigorous efforts transpire behind the scenes.

“A duck on water shows apparent tranquility, but beneath, its feet are paddling frantically. This is how India has approached the negotiations,” he explained.

In a historical analogy, Dr. Vohra compared President Donald Trump's leadership style with that of Roman Emperor Caligula, citing the phrase 'Oderint dum metuant' (Let them hate, so long as they fear). He observed that President Trump seems to value respect and popularity more than affection. In response, India adopted a stance of restraint and strategic engagement.

He remarked that India has largely fulfilled its primary goals within the trade agreement while safeguarding sensitive sectors.

“We have successfully secured significant advantages while protecting our agriculture, dairy, and small-scale industries, ensuring that our exporters and producers remain unharmed,” he humorously quoted a Hindi song, asserting that 'abhi toh party shuru hui hai' (the party has just begun).

On energy trade discussions, Dr. Vohra referenced remarks from President Trump indicating that India might boost its energy imports from the US and potentially Venezuela. He asserted that India will make energy choices based on national interests.

“India will procure oil wherever it aligns with our interests. We will continue to buy oil from Russia due to its competitive pricing. Russia has been a reliable ally and has never sanctioned India, unlike various other nations,” he remarked.

Dr. Vohra characterized the trade agreement as a pivotal milestone in India's global trade engagement. “While the EU agreement was the 'mother of all deals', the US deal with India can be termed the 'father of all deals',” he concluded.