India-US Trade Deal: Congress Leaders Criticize PM Modi's Silence on Trump's Claims

Strategic Insights -

Congress leaders Jairam Ramesh and Rahul Gandhi have criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence on US President Donald Trump's claims regarding India's oil imports and the US-India trade deal. Ramesh questioned why the PM has not revealed the details of the US trade deal and why it has not been concluded yet, while Gandhi alleged that PM Modi is "frightened" of Trump.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ramesh asked PM Modi to reveal the details of the US trade deal and why it has not been concluded yet, stating that the PM's silence on Trump's claims is a sign of his government's failure in foreign policy.
  • Gandhi accused PM Modi of being "frightened" of Trump, listing several incidents where the PM has either allowed Trump to decide and announce decisions for India or has shown deference to him.
  • The US President claimed that PM Modi assured him that India would stop purchasing oil from Russia, which Ramesh disputed, pointing out that India's energy sourcing is guided by its national interests and the need to protect Indian consumers.
  • Ramesh questioned the PM's silence on Trump's claims, including a claim that Trump was responsible for stopping Pakistan-Russia tension by issuing a trade threat.
  • The Congress leaders' criticism comes after Trump's recent comments on India's oil imports and the US-India trade deal.

Statistics:

  • The US President made 51 claims that he was responsible for stopping Pakistan-Russia tension by issuing a trade threat.
  • India has been a significant importer of oil and gas, with its energy policy guided by the need to safeguard the interests of Indian consumers and ensure stable energy prices and secured supplies.
  • The current US administration has shown interest in deepening energy cooperation with India, with discussions ongoing on expanding and diversifying energy sourcing.
  • India's current oil imports from Russia have been a point of contention between the two countries.

Sources:

  • ANI News, "Congress leaders Jairam Ramesh, Rahul Gandhi criticise PM Modi's silence on Trump's claims"
  • ANI News, "US President Donald Trump says PM Modi assured him that would stop purchasing oil from"
  • MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal's statement on India's energy policy and sourcing, reported by ANI News.