Jaishankar Comments on Trump’s Foreign Policy Shift and Its Benefits for India

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that he found President Trump’s foreign policy shift unsurprising and beneficial for India. He emphasized the absence of historical grievances in US-India relations while addressing economic cooperation during his visit to the UK. Jaishankar critiqued Trump’s tariff proposals, particularly concerning India’s automobile sector, and remarked on the predictability of recent political developments.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed that he was not surprised by President Donald Trump’s recent foreign policy shift, deeming it beneficial for India. During his address in London, Jaishankar engaged with Chatham House Director Bronwen Maddox and highlighted that such political agendas are often consistent with leaders’ long-standing promises.

Currently on a six-day visit to the UK and Ireland, Jaishankar met with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, focusing on enhancing bilateral economic cooperation and fostering people-to-people exchanges. He remarked that political leaders tend to pursue their established agendas, despite facing challenges in executing them fully.

In President Trump’s recent address to Congress, he reiterated his stance against India’s high tariffs, specifically targeting the automobile sector. Trump announced reciprocal tariffs set to begin on April 2, citing that India imposes tariffs exceeding 100 percent on certain imports. Jaishankar commented that the developments seen in recent weeks were anticipated, and emphasized the absence of past grievances in US-India relations, thereby viewing the shift as advantageous for India.

In summary, Minister S. Jaishankar is optimistic about the foreign policy shifts under President Trump, recognizing potential advantages for India. His statements express confidence in the ongoing US-India relationship, free from historical baggage, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by tariffs. Jaishankar advocates for strengthened bilateral cooperation during his visit to the UK and Ireland.

Original Source: www.livemint.com