Dhruva Jaishankar discussed Trump’s tariff priorities impacting Canada, Mexico, China, and the EU, noting some exemptions for India. He emphasized an interim agreement’s importance to stabilize trade relations amid potential retaliatory tariffs and highlighted key discussions during the Raisina Dialogue addressing geopolitical issues. Jaishankar further commented on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and proposed India’s potential mediation role, pointing out critical issues faced by the Global South.
Dhruva Jaishankar from the Observer Research Foundation highlighted U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff priorities, which include Canada, Mexico, China, and the European Union, while noting that India currently benefits from some exemptions. He stated that Trump’s announcement of global reciprocal taxes could significantly impact India, which has higher tariffs than the U.S. Alongside other countries such as Malaysia and Brazil, India could face economic repercussions.
Jaishankar mentioned ongoing discussions between India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and the U.S. Trade Representative with hopes for an interim trade agreement by April 2. He acknowledged the need for both sides to compromise to stabilize relations and avert exacerbating trade tensions through tariffs, which could prompt mutual retaliatory measures.
Regarding the Raisina Dialogue, Jaishankar described it as a vital global forum featuring 4,000 delegates and over 100 sessions, emphasizing its constructive tone compared to more confrontational international events like the Munich Security Conference. Key discussions during the event include geopolitical shifts, trade issues, and connectivity challenges.
He also remarked on the recent developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, indicating that Ukraine had proposed terms for a ceasefire, which now rests on Russia’s response. The anticipated conversation between President Trump and President Putin could further clarify the situation.
Jaishankar discussed India’s potential intermediary role in facilitating dialogue between Russia and Ukraine, comparing India’s past involvement with other nations like Saudi Arabia. He expressed that India is open to acting as an intermediary, contingent on acceptance from both sides.
Moreover, he identified three critical issues affecting the Global South: institutional reform among major international organizations, health, energy, and food security, and climate justice. He pointed out the challenges arising from recent global crises and questioned how a less active U.S. role might affect opportunities for these countries and their response to issues affecting India directly.
In summary, Dhruva Jaishankar underscored the significant tariff priorities of the Trump administration, emphasizing the potential economic impacts on India. He highlighted the importance of international dialogue exemplified by the Raisina Dialogue, discussed the current dynamics of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and identified critical issues faced by the Global South. The outcomes of these discussions and negotiations could shape the future of international trade and cooperation.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
