Trump & PM Modi should hold direct talks on ‘urgent priority’: Ex-US envoy Nikki Haley
In a recent statement, former US Ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, has called for direct talks between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to mend ties between India and the United States. This comes amid rising tensions over the 50% tariff imposed by the US on Indian aluminum and steel imports. Haley, a Republican colleague of Trump’s, has emphasized that the partnership between India and the US is a “no-brainer” in the context of countering China’s growing influence in the region.
In an interview with a leading news publication, Haley stressed the importance of direct talks between Trump and Modi to reverse the current downward spiral in their relationship. She suggested that the most urgent priority should be to address the issues at hand and find a mutually beneficial solution.
“The most urgent priority should be to reverse the downward spiral, which will require direct talks between President Trump and PM Modi,” Haley said. “We need to get back to a place where we can work together to address the challenges we face, whether it’s China’s aggression or the threat of terrorism.”
Haley’s comments come at a time when India-US relations are facing significant strain due to the imposition of tariffs by the US. India has retaliated by imposing tariffs on 28 US goods, including almonds, apples, and walnuts. The move has led to a trade war between the two nations, with both sides refusing to back down.
Despite the challenges, Haley believes that the partnership between India and the US is essential in countering China’s growing influence in the region. She emphasized that the two nations share a common goal of promoting democracy, freedom, and economic growth, and that their partnership can be a powerful force in achieving these objectives.
“The partnership between India and the US is a no-brainer,” Haley said. “We both share a commitment to democracy, freedom, and economic growth. We both understand the threat that China poses to our values and way of life. And we both know that together, we can achieve great things.”
Haley’s comments have been met with widespread support from both Indian and US politicians. The Indian government has welcomed her suggestion, with officials stating that they are open to dialogue and willing to work with the US to resolve their differences.
The US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, a non-profit organization that promotes bilateral ties between the two nations, has also welcomed Haley’s comments. In a statement, the organization said that it “strongly supports” Haley’s call for direct talks between Trump and Modi, and emphasized that the partnership between India and the US is essential in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
The timing of Haley’s comments is significant, as the US and India are set to hold their annual strategic dialogue next month. The dialogue, which is expected to be attended by Trump and Modi, provides a platform for the two nations to discuss key issues, including trade, defense, and security.
In conclusion, Haley’s call for direct talks between Trump and Modi is a timely reminder of the importance of bilateral cooperation between India and the US. The partnership between the two nations is a powerful force in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region, and it is essential that they work together to address the challenges they face.
As Haley said, the most urgent priority should be to reverse the downward spiral and find a mutually beneficial solution. We can only hope that Trump and Modi will take her advice to heart and engage in direct talks to mend their relationship and strengthen their partnership.
