American Commerce Secretary: "India will apologize and return to negotiations within two months!"

On September 8, the South Korean media "Chosun Ilbo" published an article stating that the trade conflict between the United States and India is escalating. As India increases its imports of Russian crude oil, the U.S. is exerting ultimatum-like pressure using a 50% retaliatory tariff.

 

Recently, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said in an interview with Bloomberg Television, "India will sit at the negotiation table in one or two months, apologize, and try to reach an agreement with President Trump." He also said, "How to deal with Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a question on President Trump's desk," emphasizing that the decision-making power lies with Trump.

The conflict began when India significantly increased its imports of Russian crude oil, which is under U.S. sanctions. Lutnick pointed out, "Previously, India purchased less than 2% of its total crude oil imports from Russia, but now this proportion has reached about 40%." He criticized India's purchase of Russian crude oil, which has become very cheap due to sanctions, as "stupid and obviously wrong."

Since last month, the Trump administration has been imposing tariffs of up to 50% on Indian products. This includes a 25% punitive tariff on imports of Russian crude oil. Lutnick pressured India, saying, "They must choose between supporting the dollar and American consumers, or paying a 50% tariff."

India did not yield to U.S. pressure but instead tried to break through directly. Emphasizing "self-reliance," Modi said, "Economic self-interest is rising around the world, and we will not allow others to control us." The Indian government also stood firm, saying, "Energy procurement is a decision made according to national interests and market realities."

Lutnick believes India's resistance is just posturing. He said, "In the end, they all have to go back to the customers. Because we all know that the customer is always right."

Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1842662157442059/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author.