New Delhi: Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal expressed confidence in the expanding India-US relationship, emphasising the mutual benefits for both nations. Speaking at the TV9 Bharatvarsh Satta Sammelan, part of the ‘What India Thinks Today’ Summit, Goyal addressed trade negotiations, geopolitical dynamics, and the strong personal bond between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former US President Donald Trump.
Addressing tariffs imposed during the Trump administration, Goyal assured that negotiations are progressing positively, with a bilateral trade agreement expected by the fall of this year. While emphasising the confidential nature of these discussions, he expressed optimism that the strong Modi-Trump relationship would yield a favorable outcome for India. He reiterated that the “details are being hammered out behind closed doors, not in the public domain”.
Goyal highlighted the potential of the India-US partnership to be a “force multiplier,” amplifying each other’s strengths on the global stage. He credited the personal rapport between Modi and Trump for facilitating smoother negotiations and fostering a spirit of cooperation. ” OPm Modi’s personal relation with Trump is making job easy for us,” he said.
Goyal attributed India’s increasing global influence to factors such as a “ferocious judiciary” and a “free media,” among others, which he said “have earned the trust and respect of developed nations seeking trade and geopolitical partnerships”. He emphasized India’s commitment to prioritising its own interests while ensuring mutually beneficial outcomes in international agreements.
He underscored the principle of prioritising national interests in trade negotiations, with India adopting an “India first” approach and the US a “US first” stance. He believes that this approach ensures that any trade agreements benefit both countries and their citizens, creating a win-win situation. He reiterated this point on April 2nd, assuring that any deal would favour India and be mutually advantageous.
India-Canada trade talks
Turning to India-Canada relations, Goyal revealed that trade talks had been suspended by Canada. He expressed a desire to work with the new Canadian government, suggesting that Canada would eventually recognize the value of a partnership with India and resume negotiations.
Strong BJP-Shiv Sena (Shinde) ties in Maharashtra
Finally, Goyal addressed domestic political dynamics, affirming the strong ties between the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, dismissing rumors of strained relations.
