The White House on Monday reaffirmed that a long-anticipated trade agreement between the United States and India is nearing finalisation, with officials suggesting that an announcement could be made soon. The statement comes as both nations deepen strategic and economic ties amid shifting dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.
During a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described India as a “very strategic ally” and confirmed that US President Donald Trump and his trade team are in the final stages of completing the deal. Responding to a reporter’s question, she said, “Yes, the President said that last week, and it remains true. I just spoke to our Secretary of Commerce about it. He was in the Oval Office with the President. They are finalising these agreements, and you’ll hear from the President and his trade team very soon when it comes to India.”
Leavitt also addressed a query from Indian news agency ANI regarding China’s increasing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific and its implications on US-India relations. “India remains a very strategic ally in the Asia Pacific and the President has a very good relationship with Prime Minister Modi, and he will continue to have that,” she stated.
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The potential trade pact comes amid growing American efforts to strengthen partnerships in the Indo-Pacific to counterbalance China’s economic and military influence. Analysts suggest that a comprehensive agreement with India would not only deepen bilateral trade but also align with Washington’s broader geopolitical strategy.
While no specific timeline was provided, Leavitt’s remarks strongly indicate that behind-the-scenes preparations are in advanced stages and a formal announcement could be imminent.
