Daijiworld Media Network- New York

New York, Aug 13: US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has described India as “a bit recalcitrant” in ongoing trade negotiations with Washington.

Speaking to Fox Business on Tuesday, Bessent said while the US hopes to conclude tariff and trade agreements by the end of October, India and Switzerland remain among the key countries where deals are yet to be finalised. “I think we will have agreed on substantial terms with all the substantial countries. The President’s doing peace deals, trade deals, tax deals,” he added.

The remarks come amid fresh US tariffs on India, announced by President Donald Trump. These include a total levy of 50 per cent — with 25 per cent specifically targeting New Delhi’s purchase of Russian oil — set to take effect from August 27.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has termed the move “unjustified and unreasonable,” asserting that the country will take all necessary measures to protect its national interests and economic security.

A US delegation is scheduled to visit New Delhi from August 25 for the sixth round of negotiations on a proposed bilateral trade pact, with both sides aiming to conclude the first phase by October-November this year.