India has confirmed its preference for bilateral negotiations regarding border disputes with China, rejecting President Trump’s mediation offer. Discussions also covered trade agreements, with an emphasis on reviving talks for a deal by fall 2025, following efforts from the previous administration. Diplomatic engagements continue to demonstrate a commitment to strengthening Indo-US relations amid global geopolitical challenges.
In Washington, India has reaffirmed its commitment to a bilateral resolution for its ongoing border disputes with China, following President Donald Trump’s offer to mediate ending the “border skirmishes.” The President’s proposal emerged after discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House, where he addressed the violent nature of the skirmishes, stating, “If I could be of help, I’d love to help because that should be stopped. That’s been going on for a long time and it’s quite violent.”
However, shortly after Trump’s remarks, the Indian government declined the offer, emphasizing its historical preference for bilateral negotiations in such disputes. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri remarked, “Whatever issues we have with any of our neighbours, we have always adopted a bilateral approach to dealing with these issues.” This is not the first time Trump has sought to mediate between India and its neighbors; previous offers have also been declined.
President Trump is attempting to establish himself as a global peacemaker, focusing on stabilizing geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and issues in the Middle East. Additionally, the Foreign Secretary addressed Trump’s suggestion of supplying India with fifth-generation F-35 stealth fighter jets, clarifying that discussions regarding this proposal have yet to formally commence.
On trade matters, before meeting with Prime Minister Modi, President Trump implemented reciprocal tariffs as part of his administration’s trade policies, a significant issue discussed during their talks. Misri noted, “What’s more remarkable is the fact that we have a way forward on this issue in terms of the undertaking to discuss or start discussions on a bilateral trading agreement.”
Previous negotiations for a trade deal that was to be finalized during PM Modi’s visit to the US in 2020 did not conclude. However, as indicated in the India-US joint statement, discussions will be rekindled with an aim to finalize the agreement by the fall of 2025, signaling a renewed commitment to strengthen bilateral trade relations. Misri added that both teams would begin engagements promptly based on directives from leadership.
In summary, India has opted for a bilateral approach to manage its border disputes with China, despite President Trump’s mediation offer, underscoring its historical policy. The talks also highlighted ongoing trade discussions, indicating a proactive stance towards enhancing relations with the United States, with trade agreements on the horizon. Overall, the engagements reflect a willingness to collaborate on various fronts, despite distinct national policies regarding conflict resolution.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
