India’s latest statement on trade talks with United States

India and the United States have agreed to continue discussions to finalise a mutually beneficial trade agreement, the Indian government said in a statement on Friday.

A delegation led by India’s Commerce and Industry Minister visited the United States from September 22 to 24, and held meetings with US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer and US Ambassador-designate to India, Sergio Gor.

The delegation engaged with US government officials on various aspects of bilateral trade and also met key US-based businesses and investors to promote trade and investment between the two countries, the government added.

“Both sides exchanged views on possible contours of the deal and it was decided to continue the engagements with a view to achieve early conclusion of a mutually beneficial Trade Agreement,” the Indian government said.

Business leaders at the meetings reportedly expressed confidence in India’s growth story and their intent to expand operations in the country, according to the government.

The statement comes against the backdrop of US President Donald Trump’s UN General Assembly speech on September 23, in which he accused India and China of being “primary funders” of the Ukraine war by continuing to purchase Russian oil. Trump also reiterated claims of having mediated a ceasefire between India and Pakistan – a statement that has been met with skepticism in New Delhi.

The Indian government has not formally responded to Trump’s remarks. Meanwhile, ongoing trade discussions highlight New Delhi’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with the US, especially in the context of the punitive 25% additional tariffs imposed on Indian goods from August 27.

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