Daijiworld Media Network – Washington
Washington, Sep 6: India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra, held a series of meetings with key U.S. lawmakers this week, focusing on strengthening India–U.S. bilateral ties, trade cooperation, and expanding energy partnerships amid rising geopolitical tensions. The outreach comes against the backdrop of former U.S. President Donald Trump's recent decision to double tariffs on Indian imports, which has raised concerns in New Delhi.
Kwatra met with Congressman Rudy Yakym and discussed bilateral trade and India’s energy security, highlighting the growing hydrocarbon trade between the two countries. He thanked Yakym for his continued support for the India–U.S. relationship. Similar discussions were held with Congressman Blake Moore, Vice Chair of the House Republican Conference, where both sides exchanged views on trade and India’s energy imperatives.
Ambassador Kwatra also met with Representative Mike Kelly, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Taxation, discussing India’s expanding economic ties with the U.S., particularly in the hydrocarbon sector. In his meeting with Representative Carol Miller, Chair of the Congressional Energy Export Caucus, Kwatra emphasized India’s energy needs and its commitment to diplomacy in addressing global crises, including its support for peace efforts such as the Alaska Summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
In his conversation with Representative Gregory Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Kwatra addressed recent developments in the bilateral relationship, including cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, trade, and energy. Meeks reiterated Congress’ longstanding bipartisan support for U.S.-India ties and expressed concern over Trump’s new tariffs, warning they could harm the strategic relationship.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs previously condemned the 50 percent tariff imposed by Trump on August 27, calling it unfair and unreasonable. The move was in response to India’s continued import of discounted Russian oil amid the Ukraine conflict. New Delhi has defended its energy policy, citing strategic autonomy and the need to secure affordable energy supplies for its population.
Kwatra’s meetings reflect New Delhi’s attempt to both reaffirm the strength of the India–U.S. relationship and resist protectionist measures that could undermine bilateral trade. By engaging with members across party lines, India aims to ensure its concerns are addressed ahead of the 2026 U.S. presidential elections, especially as global energy dynamics and geopolitical rivalries intensify.