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 emphasized the importance of direct talks between US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to mend the strained ties between the two nations. Haley, a Republican and a close ally of Trump, has called the partnership between India and the US a “no-brainer” to counter the growing influence of China.
In an interview with NDTV, Haley stressed that the most pressing priority for both nations should be to reverse the downward spiral in their relations, which has been marked by tensions over the 50% tariff imposed on Indian goods by the US. According to Haley, the only way to achieve this is through direct talks between Trump and Modi.
“The most urgent priority should be to reverse the downward spiral, which will require direct talks between President Trump and PM Modi,” Haley said. “They need to sit down, have a conversation, and figure out what the issues are and how to resolve them.”
Haley’s comments come at a time when the India-US relationship is facing unprecedented challenges. The 50% tariff imposed by the US on Indian goods, including steel and aluminum, has led to a significant deterioration in bilateral trade relations. The Indian government has retaliated by imposing tariffs on 28 US products, including almonds, apples, and walnuts.
The trade tensions have also been exacerbated by differences over issues such as intellectual property rights, data localization, and the role of state-owned enterprises in the economy. Additionally, the US has expressed concerns over India’s growing military ties with Russia, which has been seen as a potential threat to regional stability.
Despite these challenges, Haley believes that the partnership between India and the US is a “no-brainer” for both nations. She pointed out that the two countries share common values and interests, including a commitment to democracy, economic freedom, and a rules-based international order.
“The partnership between India and the US is a no-brainer. We are two of the most democratic countries in the world, and we share common values and interests. We have a common enemy in China, and we need to work together to counter its growing influence,” Haley said.
Haley’s comments have been welcomed by many in India, who have been advocating for a more robust and strategic partnership with the US. However, the Indian government has been cautious in its response, with officials emphasizing the need for a more balanced and reciprocal relationship.
In recent years, India has been seeking to diversify its foreign policy, including by strengthening its ties with other major powers such as Russia, China, and Japan. The Indian government has also been pushing for a more inclusive and equitable globalization, which would require a more nuanced and balanced approach to its relations with the US.
Despite these challenges, Haley believes that the potential benefits of a stronger India-US partnership far outweigh the costs. She pointed out that the two countries have significant economic and strategic interests in common, including a commitment to free trade, investment, and technological cooperation.
“The India-US relationship has the potential to be a game-changer for both countries. We have a significant economic relationship, and we can work together to promote trade, investment, and technological cooperation. We also share common strategic interests, including a commitment to counter-terrorism and non-proliferation,” Haley said.
In conclusion, Haley’s call for direct talks between Trump and Modi comes at a critical time for the India-US relationship. As the two nations navigate the complexities of their relations, it is essential that they prioritize dialogue and cooperation over confrontation and competition.
Ultimately, the success of the India-US partnership will depend on the ability of both nations to find common ground and work together to address their shared challenges and opportunities. With Haley’s support and encouragement, the prospects for a stronger and more strategic partnership between India and the US look promising.
