Trump & PM Modi should hold direct talks on ‘urgent priority’: Ex-US envoy Nikki Haley
In a recent development, President Donald Trump’s Republican colleague and former US Ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, has called for direct talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump to mend India-US ties, which are currently strained over 50% tariff imposed on certain Indian products. Haley emphasized that the partnership between India and the United States is a “no-brainer” to counter China’s growing influence globally.
In an interview with NDTV, Haley pointed out that the current situation demands urgent attention and stressed that the most pressing priority should be to reverse the downward spiral in bilateral ties. She emphasized that direct talks between the two leaders are essential to address the issues and restore harmony in the relationship.
“The most urgent priority should be to reverse the downward spiral, which will require direct talks between President Trump and PM Modi,” Haley said. She also highlighted the importance of the India-US partnership, stating that it is a “no-brainer” to strengthen ties with India, considering the country’s growing economy and strategic location in the region.
Haley’s comments come at a time when tensions between the two nations have been escalating over the past few months. In June, the US imposed 25% tariffs on around $5 billion worth of Indian products, including steel and aluminum, citing national security concerns. India retaliated by imposing tariffs on $240 million worth of US goods, including almonds, apples, and walnuts.
The tariffs have had a significant impact on bilateral trade, with Indian exports to the US declining by over 30% in the first half of 2019. The US Chamber of Commerce has also warned that the tariffs could lead to job losses and economic instability in both countries.
Haley’s call for direct talks between the two leaders is aimed at resolving the trade disputes and restoring the strong partnership between India and the US. She emphasized that the two countries share common values and interests, including democracy, freedom, and economic growth.
“The relationship between the United States and India is incredibly strong, and I think it’s a no-brainer to strengthen that relationship,” Haley said. “We have a shared values system, we have a shared interest in democracy, we have a shared interest in freedom, and we have a shared interest in economic growth. And so, I think it’s a natural fit for us to work together.”
Haley’s comments have been welcomed by many in India, who see the partnership with the US as crucial for the country’s economic growth and strategic interests. India-US ties have been growing stronger in recent years, with the two countries cooperating on a range of issues, including counter-terrorism, defense, and trade.
In 2017, the US and India signed the US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement, which allows India to access civilian nuclear technology and fuel from the US. The two countries have also been working together to counter China’s growing influence in the region, particularly in the Indian Ocean.
However, despite the strong partnership, the two countries have faced several challenges in recent years, including disagreements over trade and tariffs. The current standoff over tariffs has led to concerns about the future of the relationship, with some experts warning that it could undermine the trust and cooperation between the two nations.
In conclusion, Nikki Haley’s call for direct talks between President Trump and PM Modi is a timely reminder of the importance of strengthening the India-US partnership. The partnership between the two countries is a “no-brainer” to counter China’s growing influence globally, and it is essential to address the current trade disputes and restore harmony in the relationship.
