Former Indian ambassador KC Singh suggests that India should raise Pakistan's issues in trade discussions if the U.S. ties trade to India's foreign policy, following Trump's tariff announcements on Russian oil.
KC Singh, a former Indian ambassador, has commented on the implications of the U.S. tariffs on Indian trade relations, particularly in light of President Trump's recent decision to remove a 25% tariff on Russian oil purchases by India. Singh suggests that the U.S. is utilizing its tariffs not only as a trade tool but also as a means to exert geopolitical pressure. He believes that if the U.S. begins to condition trade relations with India based on its foreign policy, India could address issues concerning Pakistan during trade discussions as a countermeasure.
Singh highlighted that with Trump's executive order keeping a watch on India's trade practices, there could be consequences if India opts to resume buying oil from Russia. He pointed out that while India's imports of Russian oil have decreased due to U.S. pressure, China has taken this opportunity to increase its own imports from Russia, suggesting a dynamic shift in energy procurement influenced by geopolitical actions.
In conclusion, Singh's remarks reflect not just on bilateral trade relations but underscore the broader geopolitical landscape in which countries like India and China position themselves. His advice proposes that India leverage its trade negotiations to reinforce its stance on Pakistan, thereby attempting to navigate the complexities of U.S.-India relations amidst changing global energy dynamics.
