United States Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has expressed confidence that India and the US will “come together” despite trade tensions. Speaking on the relationship between the two nations, Bessent remarked, “I do think India is the world’s largest democracy and the US is the world’s largest economy. I think at the end of the day we will come together.”
NewsMobile Editor-in-Chief Saurabh Shukla described Bessent’s remarks as a “positive signal” that points to the resilience of the partnership. Highlighting the close personal equation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, Shukla said the statement reflects a deeper realization in Washington of India’s role as a strategic ally.
“Scott Bessent is not only the Treasury Secretary but also a close confidant of President Trump. His statement is not without context. What he is essentially saying is that both countries will iron out their differences, and the fundamentals of the partnership remain strong,” Shukla explained. He added that Trump’s consistent praise for Modi underscores the importance the White House attaches to India.
While acknowledging that tariff-related frictions exist, Shukla said such measures are often used by Trump as “a bargaining chip” and should not be mistaken for a breakdown in ties. “I sense that the relationship can not only bounce back but also grow stronger. These hiccups are temporary,” he noted.
On the question of when progress could be expected on the India–US trade front, Shukla pointed to a series of upcoming diplomatic engagements, including Trump’s anticipated visit to India for the Quad Summit later this year. He also highlighted Washington’s nomination of Sergio Gore as Ambassador-designate to India and the continuation of the 2+2 dialogue as signs of forward momentum.
“These are very positive signs,” Shukla said. “If there was truly a dip in relations, these steps wouldn’t have been taken. Behind the scenes, delicate but important negotiations are underway. We should allow these backchannel talks to proceed in the national interest of both countries. The outcome will be visible soon.”
Despite temporary setbacks, Shukla stressed that India and the US remain committed to their strategic partnership. “As good friends, there will always be areas of agreement and disagreement. The challenge is to find a plausible meeting point, and I believe both sides are moving in that direction,” he concluded.
