In a recent campaign event in Michigan, former US President Donald Trump criticized India’s trade policies, calling the nation an 'abuser' due to its import tariffs. However, he made a clear distinction in his personal opinion of India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, describing him as a 'fantastic man.' Trump’s comments came as he prepares for a potential 2024 presidential run and just ahead of Modi's upcoming visit to the United States.
Trump's criticism centred on India's high tariffs on imported goods, a long-standing issue in US-India trade relations. He emphasized that India imposes significant duties on US products, creating an imbalance in trade. 'India is a very big abuser,' Trump remarked during his speech, reiterating his belief that these tariffs unfairly disadvantage American industries.
Despite these harsh words, Trump simultaneously praised PM Modi, calling him 'fantastic' and recognizing the sharpness and competence of Indian leaders. 'These people are the sharpest. They're not a little bit backwards. They’re at the top of their game,' Trump said, acknowledging India’s strategic prowess on the global stage.
If elected as President again, Trump promised to implement a 'reciprocal trade' approach. Under this policy, the US would mirror the tariffs imposed by other countries, aiming to either force the elimination of tariffs or ensure the US benefits from them. 'If anybody charges us 10 cents, if they charge us $2, if they charge us 100%, we charge them the same thing,' Trump explained. He predicted that such a policy would either result in free trade or generate significant revenue for the US government.
PM Modi's upcoming visit to the US, scheduled for September 21 to 23, will kick off with the Quad Leaders' Summit. The Quad, comprising the US, India, Japan, and Australia, focuses on security and economic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. Modi will engage with leaders such as Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, in a summit hosted by US President Joe Biden.
Following the Quad Summit, Modi will address a large Indian-American community event in Long Island, New York, on September 22. This event underscores Modi's growing influence in global diplomacy and his strong connections with the Indian diaspora.
As Trump continues his campaign, his remarks on India’s trade policies and his simultaneous admiration for PM Modi highlight the complexities of US-India relations. The focus on tariffs and reciprocal trade hints at what could be a significant shift in economic policies if Trump wins the upcoming election. PM Modi's visit and engagement in high-level diplomacy will be pivotal in determining the future trajectory of US-India relations.
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