Don’t know why Trump is so angry with us: Tharoor as he compares India’s situation to China’s
The ongoing trade tensions between the United States and India have taken a new turn with US President Donald Trump imposing a 50% tariff on India. The additional 25% tariff on certain Indian products took effect on Thursday, and an additional 25% tariff will take effect on August 28. Reacting to this development, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor expressed surprise and disappointment, saying, “I don’t know why Mr Trump is so angry with us.”
Tharoor’s comments were made in an interview with NDTV, where he also compared India’s situation with that of China. He pointed out that while the US had given China a 90-day deadline to address its trade concerns, India was given only 21 days to comply. This, he said, was a clear indication of the US’s biased approach towards India.
The trade tensions between the US and India began in June, when the US imposed tariffs on certain Indian steel and aluminum products. India retaliated by imposing tariffs on 28 US products, including almonds, apples, and walnuts. Since then, the situation has escalated, with the US imposing additional tariffs on Indian products, including chemicals, textiles, and electronics.
Tharoor’s comments have sparked a renewed debate on the trade relations between the US and India. Many have questioned the US’s motives behind imposing such harsh tariffs on India, and have called for India to take a stronger stand against the US.
One of the main concerns is that the US is trying to undermine India’s economic growth and its ambitions to become a major player on the global stage. The US has long been India’s largest trading partner, and the imposition of tariffs has the potential to cause significant economic harm to India.
In response to the US’s tariffs, India has announced plans to impose retaliatory tariffs on certain US products. The Indian government has also stated that it is willing to engage in talks with the US to resolve the issue, but only if the US is willing to come to the negotiating table with a more reasonable approach.
Tharoor’s comments have also sparked a debate on the need for India to diversify its trade relations and reduce its dependence on the US. Many have argued that India needs to focus on building stronger trade ties with other countries, including China, Japan, and Europe.
In conclusion, the trade tensions between the US and India are a complex issue that requires careful consideration and a nuanced approach. While the US has its own set of concerns, India’s response has been largely measured and reasonable. It is essential that the two countries engage in constructive dialogue to resolve their differences and find a mutually beneficial solution.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear – India cannot afford to be taken for granted. The country needs to stand up for its rights and interests, and work towards building a more balanced and equitable trade relationship with the US.
