India has countered US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick's comments on trade negotiations between the two countries being delayed. Lutnick implied that the lack of personal talks between Indian PM Modi and US president Trump was one of the factors contributing to slow progress. India, however, did not go along with this interpretation and offered its own explanation.
MEA Responds to Trade Deal Comments
- The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) pointed out that during last year, Prime Minister Modi had direct communication with President Trump through telephone eight times. The talks touched upon numerous bilateral and international issues. The MEA mentioned that both nations agreed to start talking about a trade deal in February last year. And after that, many rounds of official consultations took place.
- The MEA pointed that negotiations have been nearly completed at various times. India continues to be open to an agreement on trade that is favorable to both. The MEA added that the US Secretary of Commerce's remarks did not show the entire range of these talks.
Concerns Over Minority Safety in Bangladesh
- Moreover, India also expressed worry about the recent violence against minorities in Bangladesh. The MEA claimed that there have been consistent attacks directed at the minority groups, even in their possessions and trades. India's previous less than assertive stance on this issue has led to a call for immediate action.
- The MEA cautioned that viewing these attacks as "disputes" the character of which is either personal or political could potentially pave the way for escalated violence. It further stated that such occurrences raise the level of terror and insecurity existing in the minority communities.
India Monitors US Sanctions Bill on Russian Oil
- India made it clear that it has knowledge of a legislation being introduced in the Congress of the United States which would entail a 500% tax on oil purchased from Russia by other countries. The MEA mentioned that it is closely watching the situation surrounding the bill.
- India reiterated that its position on energy imports is consistent and well known. The MEA stated that India’s oil purchases are guided by global market conditions. It emphasized that ensuring the country’s energy security remains a key responsibility of the government.
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