Are India–US Economic Ties About to Reach New Heights?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Feb 3 (NationPress) Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed enthusiasm over the recent India-US trade agreement, stating it marks the beginning of a new era of enhanced collaboration between the two nations.
In a message on X, Singh remarked, "A momentous occasion for India-US relations as a historic trade agreement has been established, reducing tariffs to a notably lower 18 percent and commencing a new chapter in profound economic collaboration."
He extended his congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump for achieving a "pivotal agreement," indicating that it will "substantially fortify our strategic alliance and yield concrete advantages for both nations and their citizens."
"With this agreement, India–US economic relations are poised to ascend to unprecedented heights," he noted.
On Monday, Trump revealed that a conversation with Prime Minister Modi led to the agreement, which lowers US tariffs on Indian products to 18 percent and alleviates Indian trading restrictions on US goods.
Trump also mentioned that India would cease purchasing Russian oil and increase its acquisition of US energy, technology, and agricultural products. He claimed that this agreement would reinforce the bond between the two nations and aid efforts to conclude the conflict in Ukraine.
PM Modi took to X to express, "It was wonderful to connect with my dear friend President Trump today. I am thrilled that Made in India products will now benefit from a reduced tariff of 18 percent. A big thank you to President Trump on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians for this fantastic announcement."
He added that when two "large economies" and the "world's largest democracies" unite, "it serves our citizens and unlocks vast opportunities for mutually beneficial collaboration."
Applauding President Trump's "leadership" in promoting global peace, stability, and prosperity, the Prime Minister stated, "India fully endorses his peace initiatives."
"I eagerly anticipate collaborating closely with him to elevate our partnership to extraordinary levels," PM Modi concluded.