PM Modi to visit US next month? What to expect amid tariff dispute
Ties between India and the US nosedived after the Trump administration slapped a tariff of 50 per cent on Indian goods as a "penalty" for New Delhi's continued purchase of Russian oil. India called the move "unjustified and unreasonable" and said that it will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit the US in September and hold bilateral talks with President Donald Trump amid a slight strain in ties between the two countries over the tariff row. During his expected visit, the Prime Minister may also attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York. While there is no official confirmation on PM Modi's visit to the US yet, the possible trip will primarily focus on his meeting with Trump.
The two global leaders are expected to iron out differences over trade besides reaching a consensus on tariffs. The visit would also offer the two leaders an opportunity to finalise a trade deal that has hit a roadblock with Indian authorities pushing back against US demands for greater market access in India for American agricultural and dairy products.
India-US frosty ties over tariff
Ties between India and the US nosedived after the Trump administration slapped a tariff of 50 per cent on Indian goods as a "penalty" for New Delhi's continued purchase of Russian oil. India called the move "unjustified and unreasonable" and said that it will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security. The Ministry of External Affairs also pointed out that the US itself continues to import uranium hexafluoride for its nuclear industry, palladium for its electric vehicle industry, fertilizers, and chemicals from Russia.
What to expect from PM Modi's visit
Recently, Trump said that there will be no trade negotiation with India until the tariff issue is resolved. India and the US have held five rounds of trade talks but they failed to arrive at a common ground on the deal over New Delhi's reluctance in opening up the agriculture and dairy sectors to the Washington. During his expected visit, the Prime Minister is likely to hold discussion with Trump over the matter and reach an agreement. The two leaders are also expected to announced a trade deal.
On tariff, Prime Minister Modi and Trump may find a solution to the steep duties on India. India's oil imports from Russia is also expected to come up during the expected meeting. Trump has been cornering New Delhi for not pausing oil purchases from Russia.