Speaking to ANI on the sidelines of the Observer Research Foundation’s annual Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, Gabbard said Indian officials view the trade discussions as an opportunity rather than a point of contention.
I am #WheelsUp on a multi-nation trip to the Indo-Pacific, a region I know very well having grown up as a child of the Pacific. I’ll be going to Japan, Thailand, and India, with a brief stop in France enroute back to DC. Building strong relationships, understanding, and open… pic.twitter.com/7PiM1a5RGu
— DNI Tulsi Gabbard (@DNIGabbard) March 10, 2025
Optimism over strengthening economic ties
Gabbard highlighted the constructive approach taken by both governments, stating, “What I have heard from the Indian government officials that I’ve spoken to over the last few days is that there is an opportunity here to see. There is more potential for strengthening our economic relationship, and I am glad to see that they are looking at it in a more positive light than just one that is focused in a negative way when we look at tariffs.”
She also pointed out that both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump are prioritising their respective nations’ economic interests.
“Obviously, Prime Minister Modi is looking out for what is in the best interest of India’s economy and the opportunities available for the people of India. Similarly, President Trump is doing the same for the United States, our economic interests and the interests of the American people,” she said.
Gabbard said both leaders are working towards a mutually beneficial resolution. “What I see as a great positive is that we have two leaders who have common sense and who are looking for good solutions. This direct dialogue is happening at the very top in both of our countries, but also at the different secretaries and the cabinet members,” she said, adding that these meetings will be key to laying down what the path forward really looks like, along with keen interest in the private sectors in both the countries.
Bilateral ties and shared vision
Gabbard also pointed to the strong rapport between Modi and Trump as a key factor in advancing US-India relations, saying that the tone and the relationship with the new Trump administration were set during PM Modi’s visit to the White House.
“As you know, they are already good friends. It was a great opportunity for them to share their joint vision for the US-India partnership and the opportunity for us to continue to strengthen that partnership,” she said.
Beyond trade, she highlighted discussions with Indian officials on intelligence cooperation, defence, commerce and education. “The meetings that I have had here with different Indian government officials and intelligence officials really set the foundation for how we can continue to integrate and strengthen our relationship, not only in my area of intelligence, but also in commerce, trade, defence, and education. There is nothing but opportunity that I see in the US-India partnership,” she said.
Apart from the economic and strategic matters, Gabbard shared her admiration for Indian philosophy, particularly the teachings of the Mahabharat. She expressed how the wisdom imparted by Lord Krishn to Arjun has been a source of inspiration in her life and leadership.
Her visit underscores the ongoing diplomatic engagement between the US and India, reinforcing their commitment to deepening bilateral ties across multiple sectors.
(With inputs from agencies)
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