From Tariffs to Technology: Jaishankar Engages Trump Aides on Next Phase of India-US Ties

Washington: Immediately after the recent big trade deal between Donald Trump and Narendra Modi, India has clearly indicated that this partnership will not be limited to just reducing tariffs. Now the matter has gone beyond that.

In this series, Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar visited America from 2 to 4 February. His objective was clear, to take India-US economic relations to the next level and start working rapidly on new priorities, especially in strategic areas like critical minerals.

Why is the trade deal considered so important?

In this agreement announced by Trump, the reciprocal tariff on Indian goods has been reduced from 25% to 18%. Indian exporters are going to benefit directly from this. This is relief news for sectors like manufacturing, pharma and renewable energy. The government believes that this will increase factories, bring investment and create employment opportunities. This is also being considered as a step to strengthen 'Make in India'.

What was the conversation with the US Treasury?

Jaishankar met Scott Bessant as soon as he reached Washington. This meeting was important because converting the deal made at the political level into ground reality is not an easy task. Both sides openly discussed issues like better market access, coordination of rules and ease of doing business. The objective was that the agreement should not remain just on paper, but the companies and businessmen should get real benefits.

Why so much emphasis on critical minerals?

After this, Jaishankar met Marco Rubio. The focus here was on critical minerals, i.e. those minerals that are essential for semiconductors, defence, electric vehicles and clean energy. The United States Department of State also clearly said that both the countries want to work together in exploration, mining and processing of these minerals. In fact, a large part of the world's supply is dependent on China and both countries want to reduce this dependence.

What is the plan on supply chain security?

America wants to create a strong supply chain with trusted partner countries. For this purpose, the first Critical Minerals Ministerial Conference is also being held in Washington, in which India is participating. It is clear from this that it is not just a matter of trade but also of strategic security.

Is this partnership becoming more widespread now?

This visit showed that India-US relations are no longer limited to just defense or traditional trade. Issues like energy, nuclear power, technology, supply chain and Indo-Pacific security are also included on the agenda.

In simple language, both the countries now want a long-race partnership, where economic benefits and strategic interests go hand in hand. This is not just a deal, but a new chapter in relationships.