Trump’s Tariffs Can Push India Closer to Russia & China: Ex-US NSA
The ongoing trade tensions between the United States and India have taken a new turn with former US National Security Advisor John Bolton warning President Donald Trump against imposing tariffs on India. Bolton’s remarks come as a surprise, given the close relationship between the two countries, and have sent shockwaves across the global political landscape.
In an interview with News18, Bolton expressed concerns that Trump’s decision to impose 50% tariffs on India could have far-reaching consequences, including pushing India closer to Russia and China. He stated, “Trump’s heavy-handed tariffs on India jeopardise decades of American efforts to bring India away from Russia and China.”
Bolton’s comments are significant, given his experience in the Trump administration. As the National Security Advisor from April 2018 to September 2019, Bolton played a crucial role in shaping the administration’s foreign policy, including its approach to India. His views on the tariffs issue provide valuable insight into the potential implications of Trump’s decision.
The tariffs, which were announced in June, are a response to India’s alleged failure to provide adequate access to its markets for American goods. The move has been criticized by many, including business leaders and lawmakers, who argue that it will harm the US-India trade relationship and undermine the country’s economic growth.
Bolton’s concerns about the tariffs are not unfounded. India has been growing increasingly close to both Russia and China in recent years, and the tariffs could accelerate this trend. Russia and China have been actively courting India, and the country has been receptive to their overtures.
In 2019, India signed a $5 billion deal with Russia to purchase S-400 air defense systems, a move that was seen as a significant shift in the country’s military strategy. China has also been investing heavily in India, with plans to invest $20 billion in the country over the next five years.
The tariffs could also have a significant impact on India’s economic growth. The country’s economy has been slowing down in recent years, and the tariffs could exacerbate this trend. India’s exports to the US have already been affected, with the country’s exports declining by 17% in the first quarter of 2020.
Bolton’s comments have been welcomed by many in India, who have been critical of Trump’s tariffs. The Indian government has been trying to negotiate a trade deal with the US, but the tariffs have complicated the process.
The tariffs are also seen as a setback for the US-India strategic partnership, which has been growing in recent years. The partnership is based on shared values, including democracy, pluralism, and the rule of law. The tariffs could undermine this partnership, as India begins to look elsewhere for economic and strategic cooperation.
In conclusion, Bolton’s comments highlight the potential risks associated with Trump’s tariffs on India. The tariffs could push India closer to Russia and China, undermining the country’s strategic partnership with the US. It’s essential for the US to reconsider its approach to the tariffs and to work towards a mutually beneficial trade agreement with India.
