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Govt sources hopeful White House will modify tariffs on India downwards
Official sources said on Friday evening that they were hopeful the White House would better appreciate New Delhi's perspective and modify the tariffs on India, potentially lowering them to levels comparable to those proposed for countries like Vietnam (20 per cent) and Indonesia (19 per cent).
Government sources expressed surprise at Trump's Wednesday evening (India time) announcement of the 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods. However, they have chosen to communicate New Delhi's viewpoint on the India-US trade deal and the country's long-standing ties with Russia behind closed doors rather than making public statements. "We are a responsible nation, and we would prefer to deal with sensitive issues with the maturity they deserve rather than resort to social media," a government source said. At this point, the government is not considering any retaliatory action against the US.
New Delhi's official response during the Ministry of External Affairs' weekly media briefing to questions about Trump's social media posts on tariffs, India's economy, and its relations with Russia was suitably measured. The MEA emphasized that India-US ties have 'weathered several transitions and challenges' and will continue to progress.
When asked if India had decided not to purchase F-35 fighter jets, Jaiswal said the question should be directed to the relevant ministry. He added that India and the US have a strong defense partnership that has grown over the years. "There is potential for this partnership to grow further under the India-US COMPACT for the 21st Century," Jaiswal said.
On India's energy procurement, particularly regarding Russian crude, Jaiswal stated it is driven by national interest. 'In securing our energy needs, we are guided by what is available in the markets and the prevailing global circumstances,' he said. Responding to Trump's criticism of India's continued defense and energy purchases from Moscow, Jaiswal emphasized that India and Russia share a 'steady and time-tested partnership.' 'The sourcing of our defense requirements is determined solely by our national security imperatives and strategic assessments,' Jaiswal said.
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