Dhruva Jaishankar discussed U.S. tariff priorities under President Trump, focusing on key countries such as Canada, Mexico, China, and the EU, while noting India’s relative exemption. He expressed optimism regarding impending trade negotiations and the importance of the Raisina Dialogue. Additionally, he addressed the Russia-Ukraine situation and the role India can play in peace talks, emphasizing institutional reform, health issues, and climate justice as critical global concerns.
Dhruva Jaishankar, Executive Director of the Observer Research Foundation, commented on the tariff priorities of U.S. President Donald Trump, noting that Canada, Mexico, China, and the European Union are key targets. Interestingly, he indicated that India has experienced a degree of exemption from these tariffs. However, with Trump’s recent announcements concerning global reciprocal taxes, Jaishankar warned that India could face significant economic repercussions, alongside other countries such as Malaysia and Brazil.
Jaishankar further mentioned active negotiations involving India’s Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, expressing optimism for an interim agreement before April 2. He emphasized the need for constructive dialogues which could stabilize U.S.-India relations. He indicated that, while India may consider counter-tariffs in response to U.S. measures, there is hope that Trump might reconsider his stance, as he has previously done in similar situations.
During the Raisina Dialogue, which began recently in Delhi, Jaishankar described it as an important global forum with over 4,000 delegates from over 100 countries. He contrasted its constructive atmosphere with that of other international conferences, like the Munich Security Conference. Topics discussed at the dialogue include global connectivity, trade, and geopolitical shifts pertaining to current conflicts.
Regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Jaishankar stated Ukraine has agreed to terms for a ceasefire, with Russia now needing to respond. He highlighted the adjustment of U.S. involvement and emphasized the role European nations may play in supporting Ukraine. He acknowledged that India has offered to act as an intermediary in peace talks, though Saudi Arabia remains the preferred venue for such discussions.
Jaishankar outlined three critical issues facing the Global South, relevant to India: the need for institutional reform, particularly concerning entities such as the World Bank and IMF; the challenges of health, energy, and food security exacerbated by recent global events; and the ongoing concern of climate justice. He noted that the U.S. may be stepping back from its role in addressing these issues, which could either create new opportunities or pose additional challenges for the Global South, including Indian interests.
In summary, Dhruva Jaishankar highlighted the significant tariff priorities set by President Trump, with potential consequences for India amid ongoing trade negotiations. The Raisina Dialogue serves as a crucial platform for addressing global challenges, while the evolving dynamics of the Russia-Ukraine conflict offer a complex landscape for international diplomacy, with India positioned as a potential intermediary.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
