Gatestone Institute senior fellow Gordon Chang weighs in on President Donald Trump holding off on China sanctions over purchases of Russian oil and the Chinese economy slowing sharply in July.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the U.S. and India are “close friends and natural partners” while expressing his confidence that future trade negotiations could unlock “limitless potential.”
In a post on X early Wednesday, Modi said both countries are working to settle trade discussions “at the earliest.” He added that he was looking forward to talks with President Donald Trump.
“We will work together to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for both our people,” Modi wrote.
TRUMP IMPOSES ADDITIONAL 25% TARIFFS ON INDIA TIED TO RUSSIAN OIL PURCHASES
President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi meet in the Oval Office at the White House on February 13, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images / Getty Images)
Trump made a similar post earlier in the day praising Modi as a “very good friend” and confirming that the two countries were in negotiations. He added that he expected a favorable outcome in the upcoming weeks.
The talks mark a significant shift after months of heightened trade tensions, with both countries imposing tariffs and counter-tariffs.
Washington is pressing New Delhi to ease prices on U.S. dairy and farm goods, something that India resists to protect its large population of small farmers.
INDIA, CHINA IN THE CROSSHAIRS AS US EYES RETALIATION OVER RUSSIA TIES
US President Donald Trump speaks with the press as he meets with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on February 13, 2025. (Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)
Trump has asked India to reduce reliance on Russian oil and increase its purchases of American liquefied natural gas and crude, but India argues energy diversification is a must to keep prices stable.
In technology, American firms are pushing for greater market access, stronger intellectual property protections, and fewer data localization rules, which India defends as necessary for national security and supporting its own startups.
A view of the tanker “Eventin” off the coast of the German island of Rügen. The vessel was previously reported to be transporting crude oil originating from Russia. (Stefan Sauer/picture alliance via Getty Images / Getty Images)
These unresolved disputes in agriculture, energy, and continue to leave negotiations at a crossroads and are the biggest hurdles to sealing a comprehensive deal.
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The exchange highlights the countries’ determination to move forward as both leaders face political and economic challenges in their home countries. Modi and Trump signal mutual optimism for US-India trade negotiations moving ahead together.