US Urges ‘Fair and Reciprocal’ Trade Access In Talks With India

The US has called for ‘fair and reciprocal’ market access during high-level trade discussions with India, reinforcing its long-standing demand for greater entry into the Indian market.

The appeal came during a meeting between Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.

Market Access Key To Economic Growth, Says US

Deputy Secretary Landau emphasised the need for balanced trade during his meeting with Misri on Wednesday.

“Fair and reciprocal market access is essential for economic growth and prosperity in both countries,” said State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce in a readout of the meeting.

The discussion comes amid reports that a long-anticipated bilateral trade agreement between the two nations is nearing finalisation.

US-India Trade Deal Expected Soon

Sources suggest a US-India trade agreement is imminent.

Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal recently visited Washington for talks with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, key figures in Washington’s ongoing negotiations with international partners.

Trade reciprocity remains a central tenet of US policy under President Donald Trump, extending to allies like the UK, EU, and Japan, as well as to competitors such as China and India.

Migration And Counternarcotics Also Discussed

Alongside trade, Landau raised concerns about illegal migration and narcotics trafficking.

Although specifics were not disclosed, the discussion likely referred to past instances of Indian nationals being apprehended for illegal entry into the US.

Several were deported aboard American military aircraft, with one widely circulated video showing detainees being shackled before boarding.

Both sides reiterated their shared goal of promoting regional peace and stability.

The meeting highlighted the growing strategic and economic cooperation between India and the United States amid evolving global challenges.

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