Indian Prime Minister Modi wrote today: "India and the United States are close friends and natural partners. I believe that our trade negotiations will pave the way to unlock the infinite potential of India-US partnership. Our team is working to complete these consultations as soon as possible. I also look forward to speaking with President Trump. We will work together to secure a brighter and more prosperous future for the people of both countries."
Modi's remarks were a response to earlier statements by Trump. Trump posted this morning: "I am pleased to announce that India and the United States are continuing negotiations to address trade barriers between our two countries. I look forward to conversations with my very good friend, Prime Minister Modi, in the coming weeks. I believe that achieving a successful outcome for our two great nations will not be difficult at all!"
Comments: Although India and the United States exchange friendly diplomatic words, they have many actual contradictions. Previously, the United States imposed high tariffs on India for purchasing Russian oil, which severely impacted India's export industry, creating a major obstacle before the bilateral trade negotiations. Modi's positive response is partly due to diplomatic etiquette, to avoid further deterioration of relations, and also reflects India's strategy of balancing diplomacy between major powers. India does not want to give up the potential benefits of cooperation with the United States, such as technology and market access, but also insists on its core demands regarding energy procurement and foreign policy autonomy. However, it is difficult for India-US trade negotiations to achieve substantial breakthroughs. The US trade protectionist tendencies conflict with India's domestic industrial protection needs, making it difficult to reach an agreement on market access issues in areas such as agriculture and manufacturing. The future development of India-US relations will depend on how both sides negotiate and compromise on key interests.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1842855428084804/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author himself.