India-US Trade Pact Imminent, Ties With Pakistan Not at Delhi's Expense, US Secretary of State Says

In an exclusive interview, the US Secretary of State addressed key geopolitical and economic issues shaping relations between India and the United States, including tariffs, the proposed interim trade agreement, regional security, and counterterrorism. Speaking on the pending bilateral trade pact, he stated that negotiations are very close to completion with only a few items remaining, adding that any final deal would provide trade certainty and benefit both nations. Addressing concerns over Washington's ties with Islamabad, he maintained that the relationship with Pakistan does not come at the expense of India, emphasizing shared concerns regarding global terrorism and the anti-terror track record of the United States. He noted America's readiness to play a constructive diplomatic role in averting regional conflict and preventing flashpoints following events like the Pahalgam attack. The bulletin also highlighted discussions on technology cooperation, energy partnerships, the installation of a small modular reactor in India, and immigration policies.