Trump & PM Modi Should Hold Direct Talks on ‘Urgent Priority’: Ex-US Envoy Nikki Haley
In a bid to mend strained ties between India and the United States, former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley has called for direct talks between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Haley, a Republican and a close ally of Trump, believes that a “no-brainer” partnership between the two nations is essential to counter the growing influence of China.
In an interview, Haley emphasized that the most pressing issue is to reverse the downward spiral in bilateral relations, which requires immediate and direct talks between the two leaders. The statement comes amid escalating tensions between the two nations over a 50% tariff imposed by the US on Indian aluminum and steel products.
Haley’s call for direct talks between Trump and Modi has significant implications for the future of Indo-US relations. The two nations have been strategic partners for decades, with cooperation in areas such as defense, trade, and counter-terrorism. However, the recent tariff dispute has put a strain on the partnership, with both sides refusing to back down.
The tariff dispute has been a major bone of contention between the two nations. The US imposed the 50% tariff on Indian aluminum and steel products in June, citing national security concerns. India retaliated by imposing tariffs on 28 US products, including almonds, apples, and walnuts. The dispute has already taken a toll on bilateral trade, with both sides reporting significant declines in exports.
Haley’s call for direct talks between Trump and Modi is a clear recognition of the urgent need to resolve the dispute. She believes that the two leaders must put aside their differences and engage in meaningful dialogue to address the issues. “The most urgent priority should be to reverse the downward spiral, which will require direct talks between President Trump and PM Modi,” she said.
Haley’s comments are significant because she has a deep understanding of the inner workings of the Trump administration. As the US Ambassador to the United Nations, she was a key player in shaping the administration’s foreign policy agenda. Her familiarity with Trump’s thinking and negotiating style makes her assessment of the situation particularly valuable.
Haley’s call for direct talks is also a recognition of the importance of the India-US relationship. The two nations have made significant progress in recent years, with cooperation in areas such as defense, space, and counter-terrorism. India has emerged as a key partner for the US in the Asia-Pacific region, and the two nations have a shared interest in promoting stability and security in the region.
However, the tariff dispute has put a strain on the partnership, and it is essential that the two sides find a way to resolve the issue. Haley’s call for direct talks between Trump and Modi is a step in the right direction, and it is hoped that the two leaders will take her advice seriously.
In conclusion, Haley’s call for direct talks between Trump and Modi is a clear recognition of the urgent need to resolve the tariff dispute. The two leaders must put aside their differences and engage in meaningful dialogue to address the issues. The India-US relationship is a “no-brainer” partnership, and it is essential that the two sides find a way to resolve the dispute and move forward.
