India is actively working to resolve ongoing trade issues with the United States, according to External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. Speaking at the Kautilya Economic Conclave in New Delhi, he highlighted the need for a trade understanding with the US, which he described as the world’s largest market. Jaishankar pointed out that current trade discussions have not yet reached a satisfactory conclusion, leading to what he termed "unfair" tariffs imposed on India.

"We have issues with the United States today — mainly that we haven’t yet reached a landing ground in our trade discussions. This has led to certain tariffs being levied on us, which we have publicly said are unfair," Jaishankar stated. He specifically mentioned the US's concerns regarding India's energy imports from Russia, noting that similar tariffs have been applied to India despite other countries, with more adversarial relations with Russia, continuing their imports.

Jaishankar emphasized the importance of respecting India's "red lines" in any trade agreement. He remarked, "Whatever happens at the end of the day, there has got to be a trade understanding with the US… but it has to be an understanding where our bottom lines, our red lines are respected."

The minister also discussed the changing global energy dynamics, highlighting the US's transition to becoming a significant energy exporter and China's leadership in renewable energy. He noted, "One of the big changes in recent years is that the United States... has not only become self-sufficient but is now a significant exporter of energy."

The ongoing tariff dispute has seen India and the US engage in regular discussions at various levels. Five rounds of negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement have taken place, with the sixth round postponed due to the imposition of tariffs. Jaishankar expressed optimism about reaching a resolution, stating that discussions have been ongoing since March. He concluded by urging that the broader relationship between India and the US should not be overshadowed by these trade issues, as both nations continue to navigate their complex ties in a changing global landscape.