Amid surging momentum in India-US trade negotiations, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal engaged in high-level discussions with US Ambassador Eric Garcetti and Senator Steve Daines in New Delhi on Monday. The meeting underscored the deepening strategic partnership between the world’s largest democracies.

Goyal later shared on social media his pleasure in meeting the dignitaries again, noting a substantive dialogue on bilateral relations. Garcetti has previously highlighted the priority on trade alongside joint efforts in defense, anti-terrorism, energy security, tech innovation, education exchanges, and healthcare initiatives.

Progress is evident: Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal announced the first phase of the bilateral trade agreement is close to finalization. Recent virtual talks between Goyal and USTR Jamieson Greer have kept negotiations on track.

India’s ambitious trade agenda includes FTAs with the US and others like the EU. EU negotiations are nearly wrapped up, with 20 chapters agreed upon. EU heavyweights Costa and von der Leyen will attend Republic Day as chief guests, paving the way for a leaders’ summit on January 27 to resolve outstanding matters.

As global supply chains realign, these talks could unlock billions in trade opportunities, enhance investor confidence, and fortify India’s position in the Indo-Pacific economy. The coming weeks will be crucial in shaping these landmark deals.