Trump & PM Modi should hold direct talks on ‘urgent priority’: Ex-US envoy Nikki Haley
The world is witnessing a significant shift in global politics, with the rise of new powers and the decline of traditional alliances. Amidst this backdrop, the partnership between India and the United States has emerged as a crucial bulwark against the growing influence of China. However, the ties between the two nations have been strained in recent times, particularly over the issue of tariffs. In an effort to mend the relationship, former US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley has called for direct talks between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In a recent interview, Haley emphasized that the partnership between India and the US is a “no-brainer” in the context of the current global landscape. She noted that both nations share common values and interests, and that their cooperation is essential to counter the growing threat from China. However, she also acknowledged that the recent tensions over tariffs have created a significant obstacle to their relationship.
Haley stressed that the most urgent priority should be to reverse the downward spiral in India-US ties, which she believes can only be achieved through direct talks between Trump and Modi. She highlighted that the two leaders have a unique opportunity to address the outstanding issues and strengthen their partnership, which is crucial for the stability of the region.
The call for direct talks comes at a time when the India-US relationship is facing significant challenges. The recent decision by the Trump administration to impose 50% tariffs on Indian goods has sparked widespread protests in India, and has led to a deterioration in the relationship between the two nations. The Indian government has retaliated by imposing its own set of tariffs on US goods, leading to a tit-for-tat escalation.
Despite these challenges, Haley remains optimistic about the potential for the India-US partnership. She noted that both nations have a strong foundation of cooperation, and that their partnership is built on shared values such as democracy, free trade, and individual freedoms. She emphasized that the relationship is not limited to economic ties, but also encompasses cooperation in areas such as security, technology, and innovation.
Haley also highlighted the significant progress that has been made in the India-US partnership over the past few years. She noted that the two nations have made significant advances in areas such as defense and security cooperation, and that their partnership has been a key driver of growth and prosperity in the region.
In addition, Haley emphasized the importance of the India-US partnership in the context of the current global landscape. She noted that the rise of China has created a significant challenge for the international community, and that the India-US partnership is essential to counter this threat. She highlighted that both nations share a common interest in promoting free trade, democracy, and individual freedoms, and that their partnership is crucial for promoting stability and prosperity in the region.
The call for direct talks between Trump and Modi has been welcomed by many in India and the US. The Indian government has been pushing for a resolution to the tariff dispute, and has been urging the Trump administration to reconsider its decision. Similarly, many in the US have been calling for a more nuanced approach to trade policy, and have been urging Trump to work more closely with PM Modi to resolve the outstanding issues.
In conclusion, the call for direct talks between Trump and Modi is a timely and necessary step in the context of the current global landscape. The partnership between India and the US is a crucial bulwark against the growing influence of China, and is essential for promoting stability and prosperity in the region. Haley’s emphasis on the importance of direct talks between the two leaders is a recognition of the need for a more nuanced and cooperative approach to their relationship.
