Veena Sikri Outlines India's Clear Stance on US Relations and Trade

Addressing the implications of the recent US midterm election results, former diplomat Veena Sikri reaffirmed that India's foreign policy remains transparent and interest-driven. While New Delhi seeks robust and amicable relations with Washington, it firmly opposes any form of unequal tariff imposition. The government intends to vigilantly monitor American political and economic developments to protect domestic markets.

On international fronts, India has maintained a consistent call for peace and negotiated settlements. This includes backing resolutions to the Russia-Ukraine dispute and advocating for an end to military confrontations involving Iran. Sikri emphasized that diplomatic engagement will remain India's primary tool for maintaining worldwide equilibrium.

Strengthening Indo-US bilateral ties is a continuous priority. With a Quad summit slated for Manila in November, high-level diplomatic exchanges are expected to take place. A potential encounter between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump could yield significant breakthroughs on pending bilateral issues.

India's strategic framework places national security and energy independence at its core. According to Sikri, New Delhi will maintain a balanced and autonomous foreign policy, ensuring that global advocacy for dialogue does not override domestic welfare. The next few months will clarify Washington's approach, determining whether future US strategies will lean toward negotiated peace or persist with current hardline measures.