Bharti Enterprises Founder and Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal has expressed strong optimism that India and the United States will conclude a long-awaited trade agreement within the next few weeks, directly addressing US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick at the IX Leadership Summit of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF).
Mittal's Direct Appeal to US Commerce Secretary
Speaking at the summit, where he was honored with the 2026 Leadership Award, Mittal said: "I'm hoping Secretary Lutnick that if not in days, but in a few weeks, that India and the US will have a trade deal that we in the industry have been looking forward to." This statement underscores the urgency and significance of the proposed pact for the business community on both sides.
Indian Diaspora as a Strategic Bridge
Mittal highlighted the nearly five-million-strong Indian diaspora in the United States as a key pillar of bilateral cooperation. "Indian diaspora of nearly five million people, largest anywhere in the world, has a beautiful bridge between India and US, helping the strategic relationship develop between the two nations, be that trade, defence, or indeed higher technologies," he said. This demographic strength is seen as a unique asset in fostering deeper ties across multiple sectors.
Recognition at USISPF Leadership Summit
USISPF conferred the 2026 Leadership Award on Mittal in recognition of his contributions to transforming India's telecommunications sector and advancing economic ties between India and North America. The forum honored three global business leaders during its IX Leadership Summit for their efforts in strengthening the India-US commercial partnership. Besides Mittal, the award was presented to V. Prem Watsa, Chairman and CEO of Fairfax Financial, and Christopher T. Calio, Chairman and CEO of RTX Corporation.
Mittal's Remarks on US Independence Celebrations
In a video message played during the event, Mittal thanked USISPF for the recognition and stressed the growing strategic alignment between the two countries. He also referred to the celebrations marking 250 years of American independence, stating: "How much I wish that I would have been amongst you today on this very special occasion of USISPF holding this very special day celebrating 250 years of US freedom."
Industry Anticipation for Trade Deal
Mittal's comments come amid ongoing negotiations between New Delhi and Washington, with industry stakeholders eagerly awaiting a comprehensive trade agreement that could boost bilateral commerce. The proposed deal is expected to address tariff reductions, market access, and intellectual property rights, among other issues. The Indian government and US administration have been engaged in multiple rounds of talks, and Mittal's remarks suggest progress is imminent.
Praising the forum's efforts in deepening economic engagement, Mittal added: "I personally believe that the work that USISPF has been doing under Mukesh and John should be truly cherished and celebrated. Today they honor some of us with a very special leadership award. And I also take this occasion of congratulating Chris and Prem, who are my fellow awardees today."
