**‘Red lines must be respected’: Jaishankar on US-India trade talks**
*By Snehil Singh | Oct 06, 2025, 10:28 AM*
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has emphasized the importance of respecting India’s “red lines” in any potential trade agreement with the United States.
Speaking at the Kautilya Economic Enclave, Jaishankar acknowledged ongoing issues between India and the US, particularly concerning tariffs. “We have today issues with the United States,” he stated, noting that these problems arise from the inability to find common ground during trade negotiations.
### Tariff Criticism: India Slams US for Unfair Tariffs
Jaishankar also criticized the US for imposing what he termed “unfair tariffs” on India. He highlighted one tariff related to India’s energy sourcing from Russia, pointing out that other countries have also engaged in similar energy purchases despite maintaining more antagonistic relations with Russia. Yet, these countries have not faced comparable scrutiny or tariffs.
The minister underscored the necessity of reaching a trade understanding with the US, given its position as the world’s largest market. He noted that many other nations have successfully negotiated such agreements.
### Commitment to Negotiation
Reaffirming India’s dedication to ongoing discussions, Jaishankar said that trade talks with the US, which have been in progress since March, aim to find common ground. He acknowledged that while there are strains in the relationship, many aspects of US-India engagement continue as usual or have even improved.
“There are problems. Nobody is in denial of it,” he remarked, adding that resolving these issues requires negotiation and mutual understanding.
### Historical Context: Strained Relations Since the Trump Presidency
The US-India trade relationship has been tense since President Donald Trump significantly raised tariffs on Indian goods, some reaching as high as 50%. This includes an additional 25% duty imposed on India due to its purchase of Russian crude oil.
At the time, India described the US actions as “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable,” setting the stage for ongoing trade challenges between the two countries.
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As talks continue, both nations appear committed to addressing their differences to foster a more balanced and mutually beneficial trade partnership.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/jaishankar-says-us-trade-deal-must-respect-india-s-red-lines/story