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India-US Trade Talks Enter Final Phase (Image: Internet)
Washington: The long-pending trade agreement between India and the United States appears to be moving closer to completion, with US President Donald Trump expressing confidence that both countries will reach a deal in the near future.
Speaking at the White House, Trump described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “good friend” and said ongoing discussions between the two nations were progressing positively. His remarks came shortly after a US delegation concluded a four-day visit to India aimed at advancing negotiations on an interim trade arrangement.
Addressing reporters, Trump indicated that a breakthrough could be achieved soon, citing his strong personal rapport with Prime Minister Modi. While discussing bilateral trade, he reiterated concerns about tariffs imposed on American businesses in the past, arguing that trade dynamics between the two countries have changed significantly in recent months.
The US President said Washington is now benefiting more from the trade relationship and expressed confidence that both sides would find common ground on the remaining issues.
Efforts to strengthen trade ties gained momentum earlier this year following discussions between Trump and Modi. The two leaders had agreed on a framework for the first phase of a Bilateral Trade Agreement aimed at improving market access and resolving tariff-related concerns.
However, changes in US trade policy and legal developments prompted both countries to revisit several provisions. As a result, officials from India and the United States resumed negotiations to update and refine the proposed agreement.
Trade discussions have intensified over the past few months. An Indian delegation led by senior commerce officials visited the United States in April for detailed consultations. More recently, a US team headed by Brendan Lynch travelled to India from June 1 to June 4 to continue negotiations.
Officials familiar with the discussions have indicated that most major issues have already been resolved.
According to Indian authorities, the proposed trade pact is now in its final stages. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal recently suggested that negotiations are largely complete, with only minor technical details left to be settled.
If concluded, the agreement is expected to strengthen economic cooperation, boost bilateral trade and further deepen strategic ties between the world's two largest democracies.
