US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard on Monday emphasized the importance of direct communication between India and the United States regarding trade tariffs. She noted that both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump are committed to finding mutually beneficial solutions that enhance economic ties.
In an interview with ANI Editor Smita Prakash, Gabbard highlighted that India and the US have “a direct dialogue at the very top” to navigate tariff-related disputes.”What I see as a great positive is that we have two leaders who have common sense and who are looking for good solutions. This direct dialogue is happening at the very top in both of our countries, but also at the different secretaries and the cabinet members is going to be key to lay down what that path forward really looks like,” she said.
India-US Economic Partnership Under Focus
Gabbard, who is currently in New Delhi on a two-and-a-half-day visit, expressed optimism about the future of India-US trade relations. She stated that Indian officials see the tariff discussions as an opportunity to strengthen economic ties rather than a challenge.”What I have heard from the Indian government officials that I have spoken to over the last few days, there is an opportunity here to see. There is more potential for strengthening our economic relationship. I am glad to see that they are looking at it in a more positive light than just one that is focused in a negative way, when we look at tariffs,” she added.
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Trump’s Tariff Threat and India’s Response
The remarks come amid President Trump’s renewed criticism of India’s trade policies. Earlier this month, Trump threatened to impose reciprocal tariffs from April 2 on India and other trading partners, arguing that their trade policies are unfair to Americans.”You can’t sell anything into India, it is almost restrictive. They have agreed, by the way, they want to cut their tariffs way down now because somebody is finally exposing them for what they have done,” Trump had said.
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The US is India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching a record USD 118.2 billion in the last financial year. While Trump has been vocal about India’s “massive tariffs”, his administration has also acknowledged efforts to ease trade restrictions.
Gabbard: Modi-Trump Friendship Will Strengthen Ties
Gabbard emphasized that Modi and Trump share a strong personal rapport, which is expected to pave the way for further economic cooperation.
“The tone and the relationship with our new administration under President Trump and Prime Minister Modi was set during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the White House. As you know, they are already good friends. It was a very great opportunity for them to share their joint vision for the US-India partnership and the opportunity for us to continue to strengthen that partnership,” she said.
Her comments reaffirm Washington’s commitment to enhancing economic cooperation with New Delhi, despite ongoing trade tensions.
With India and the US engaged in high-level discussions, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining how both nations navigate trade negotiations and work towards a more balanced economic partnership.
