US Imposes 50% Tariffs on Indian Goods: MEA Responds to Trump's Remarks on India-Russia-China Relations

The United States has imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods

New Delhi:

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday declined to comment on US President Donald Trump's latest remarks in which he mentioned India, Russia and China.

Trump made the remarks in a post on X days after the SCO Summit in Tianjin, China, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"I have no comments to offer on this post at this time," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in response to media queries.

Addressing another question, Jaiswal emphasized that the relationship between the United States and India is extremely significant for India.

"Our nations share a comprehensive global strategic partnership, founded on common interests, democratic principles and strong people-to-people connections. This relationship has endured through various transitions and challenges. We remain dedicated to the substantive agenda that both countries have committed to, and we anticipate that the relationship will continue to progress based on mutual respect and shared interests. I would like to highlight that a joint military exercise is currently taking place in Alaska. Recently, there was a 2+2 inter-sessional meeting... Dialogue between both nations is ongoing and we are committed to enhancing our partnership," he said.

In response to an additional query, Jaiswal confirmed that India continues to maintain engagement with the US regarding trade matters.

"We consider the Quad as an important forum for discussions among the four member countries on shared interests across various issues. The leaders' summit is arranged through diplomatic consultations between member countries. Regarding the Ukraine conflict, we welcome all recent efforts toward establishing peace in Ukraine. We hope all parties will proceed constructively. India supports a prompt end to the conflict and the establishment of lasting peace," he stated.

The United States has imposed 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods, including a 25 per cent penalty for importing Russian oil.

"Looks like we've lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest China. May they have a long and prosperous future together!" Trump said in his post on Truth Social.

The government had previously stated that India's relationships with any country stand on their own merit and should not be viewed through the perspective of a third country.