India declined President Trump’s offer to mediate the India-China border dispute, emphasizing a preference for bilateral resolution. Trump’s discussions included potential military aid and trade negotiations. The US and India aim to restart trade talks by fall 2025.
In response to a request from President Donald Trump for mediation regarding border disputes, India reiterated its commitment to resolving such matters bilaterally with China. This offer emerged following discussions between Trump and Prime Minister Modi at the White House, where Trump remarked on the violent nature of ongoing border skirmishes. He expressed a desire to assist, stating, “If I could be of help, I’d love to help because that should be stopped,” highlighting the prolonged and violent nature of these conflicts.
Shortly after Trump’s proposition, India’s Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, clarified that the government prefers to address issues with neighbors through bilateral discussions. This approach aligns with India’s historical stance, as it has consistently rejected international mediation offers from the US regarding both India-China and India-Pakistan disputes.
President Trump aims to establish himself as a global peacemaker amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts, focusing on issues such as the Russia-Ukraine situation and Middle East tensions. Despite his mediation offers, India has remained firm on its bilateral policy regarding territorial disputes.
Beyond the border discussions, Trump also proposed to provide India with fifth-generation F-35 stealth fighter jets; however, Misri stated that discussions regarding this proposal have not formally commenced. The acquisition of such advanced military technology remains contingent on ongoing deliberations between the two nations.
Trade relations were another point of discussion during the Modi-Trump meeting, particularly in light of recent tariffs imposed by Trump. Misri confirmed that discussions around tariffs were significant, noting, “What’s more remarkable is… the undertaking to discuss or start discussions on a bilateral trading agreement.”
Previously, under the Trump administration, India and the US sought to finalize a trade deal during Modi’s visit in 2020, which ultimately did not come to fruition. Current efforts aim to revitalize these discussions with a target deadline set for the fall of 2025, as outlined in the recent joint statement by India and the US.
India has reaffirmed its dedication to a bilateral resolution of border disputes with China, rejecting President Trump’s mediation offer. Meanwhile, discussions between the two nations extend to potential military agreements and trade negotiations, emphasizing India’s stance on international relations. Progress towards a bilateral trade agreement is anticipated, aiming for completion by fall 2025.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
