The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reaffirmed India's commitment to securing a comprehensive trade agreement with the United States, emphasizing that negotiations for a mutually beneficial deal are actively ongoing. This clarification comes amidst discussions about the status of the bilateral trade talks between the two major economies.
Ongoing Negotiations Since February 2025
During the weekly press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal provided a clear timeline for the discussions. He stated that India and the United States committed to negotiating a bilateral trade agreement on 13th February last year (2025). Since that pivotal date, the two sides have engaged in multiple rounds of detailed negotiations.
The primary objective, as outlined by Jaiswal, is to arrive at a balanced and mutually beneficial trade agreement. He addressed recent characterizations of the talks, noting that certain reported remarks were not accurate and that the discussions have been substantive and progressive.
Aim for a Complementary Economic Partnership
Jaiswal underscored the foundational logic behind the pact, highlighting the complementary nature of the Indian and American economies. This synergy is seen as a key driver for a successful agreement that would benefit both nations.
"We remain interested in a mutually beneficial trade deal between two complementary economies, and look forward to concluding it," the MEA spokesperson asserted. This statement reinforces the political will on the Indian side to see the negotiations through to a positive conclusion.
High-Level Engagement Amidst Talks
Highlighting the robust diplomatic channel that supports the trade dialogue, Jaiswal pointed to sustained high-level contact between the leadership of both countries. He revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump spoke on the phone eight times during 2025.
These conversations covered a wide spectrum of issues within the broad India-US strategic partnership, indicating that trade is one component of a much larger and multifaceted relationship. This consistent engagement at the highest level provides a strong backdrop for the ongoing technical negotiations.
The MEA's detailed clarification puts to rest any speculation about the stalling of talks and confirms that both nations are diligently working through the complexities of a major trade deal. With several rounds already completed and moments where a deal was close, the path forward remains focused on achieving a balanced outcome that serves the economic interests of India and the United States equally.
