India has sided with the United States (US) President Donald Trump on the trade war with Xi Jinping of China. Reports indicate that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is ready to accept all conditions of the US in a trade deal.
Trump raised tariffs on most Chinese imports to 145%, citing the need to reduce the trade deficit and encourage domestic manufacturing.
In retaliation, China has imposed 125% tariffs on US goods and implemented non-tariff barriers, including export controls on critical rare-earth elements.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Trump in the White House in February 2025.
After the meeting, the leaders announced they would pursue a “framework” for greater cooperation.
“ Prime Minister Modi and I have agreed that we will be in negotiations to address the long-running disparities,” Trump said.
“But really, we want a certain level of playing field, which we really think we’re entitled to.”
India-US Partnership
On the other hand, Modi said India and the US will have a MEGA partnership for prosperity.
He said India is working towards a Viksit Bharat, which in the American context translates into MIGA.
“An excellent meeting with Trump at the White House. Our talks will add significant momentum to the India-USA friendship,” Modi said.
Also Read: Trump Gives Way Foward on Trade Tariffs in His 100-Day Speech
Modi Meets JD Vance
Modi also met with US Vice President JD Vance and his family in New Delhi.
In a statement, Modi said they reviewed the fast-paced progress following my visit to the US and meeting with President Trump.
He explained that the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership will be a defining partnership of the 21st Century for a better future of the world.
“We are committed to mutually beneficial cooperation, including in trade, technology, defence, energy and people-to-people exchanges,” he added.
Also Read: Ruto Offers to Serve as Mediator Between US and China
China Woos India for Support
Modi’s move is despite persuasion by Yu Jing, spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in India, for Modi to join forces with the Asian country.
Jing said India and China should stand together against US tariff actions as the two largest developing nations.
She stated that the trade ties between India and China are complementary and mutually beneficial.
“China-India economic and trade relationship is based on complementarity and mutual benefit. Facing the U.S. abuse of tariffs, which deprives countries, especially Global South countries, of their right to development, the two largest developing countries should stand together to overcome the difficulties,” she said.
Besides, Jing said, trade and tariff wars have no winners, and all countries should uphold the principles of extensive consultation.
She said countries must also practice true multilateralism while jointly opposing all forms of unilateralism and protectionism.
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