U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick made candid remarks at the eighth US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) Leadership Summit, expressing both concern and optimism about India’s foreign policy and economic trajectory. His comments acknowledged India’s strategic importance to the United States while highlighting areas of friction—particularly its military ties with Russia and participation in BRICS.
Lutnick stated that India’s historical preference for purchasing military equipment from Russia "rubbed the United States the wrong way." He noted that such procurement choices, especially amid increasing global tensions, are perceived in Washington as undermining the growing defense and strategic partnership between India and the U.S. However, he welcomed India's recent pivot toward U.S. defense equipment, calling it a “step in the right direction” that could strengthen bilateral ties.
He was also critical of India’s continued alignment with BRICS—an economic bloc that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. He pointed out that the group’s push to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar doesn't sit well with Washington. “That’s not really the way to make friends and influence people in America,” he said, adding that President Trump has addressed this issue “directly and specifically” with Indian counterparts. Lutnick suggested that such direct engagement has helped both sides work through sensitive topics more constructively.
Despite these tensions, Lutnick emphasized the strong personal rapport between former President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing their leadership dynamic as “unique” due to both being elected by large, diverse democracies. He noted that this relationship could pave the way for deeper cooperation.
On trade, Lutnick struck an optimistic tone. He said a U.S.-India trade agreement could materialize “in the not-too-distant future,” provided both countries continue to show flexibility and pragmatic leadership. He believes that the right negotiators are now at the table, working toward mutually beneficial outcomes.
However, Lutnick did not shy away from critiquing India’s protectionist trade practices, particularly its high tariff regime. He referred to India’s imposition of tariffs as high as 100% on several imports and remarked that Indian officials often struggle to justify these policies. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that both sides are now actively working to reduce tariffs to "reasonable and appropriate" levels, aiming to establish a more balanced trade environment.
In summary, Lutnick’s remarks reflect a mix of strategic concern and economic enthusiasm. While the U.S. remains wary of India’s defense purchases from Russia and its role in anti-dollar alliances like BRICS, Washington sees strong potential in expanding trade ties and defense cooperation—especially under the leadership synergy between Modi and Trump. The path forward, according to Lutnick, lies in addressing disagreements head-on, maintaining open dialogue, and focusing on shared goals.
