Trade talks on with US but interest of farmers and small producers our priority, says EAM Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Saturday said that negotiations between India and the US on trade are ongoing, but asserted that "we have some red lines," as the nation is confronted with the possibility of drastic 50 per cent tariff beginning August 27.

Speaking at the 'Economic Times World Leaders Forum 2025' here, Jaishankar reaffirmed that the discussions with the US are going on.

He pointed out the priorities of the government, stating, "What we are worried about is that the red lines are mainly the interests of our farmers and, to a certain degree, of our small producers. We, as a government, are determined to protect the interests of our farmers and our small producers. We are very firm on that. That's not something that we can negotiate on."

Describing US President Donald Trump's international style, Jaishankar said it "is a very major departure from the traditional orthodox way of doing so," even in the way he negotiates with his own nation.

Earlier, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal stressed that India's trade negotiations, including free trade agreements, will focus on national interest and Indian industry needs.

"I always have a very clear vision. When we strike trade agreements, I need to safeguard national interest. We typically now deal with various nations with the advance understanding, even before entering into talks: you will be sensitive to my issues, I will be sensitive to yours. There are concerns in all countries around the world," Goyal stated on Friday.

He further said that India is engaging proactively with the European Union and is speeding up negotiations on three to four other trade agreements.

"The EU too has some areas which are extremely sensitive to them. We understand that. As they understand our sensitivity areas. And, therefore, I do not think it will be difficult to reach an understanding on the trade side," Goyal said.

The minister also highlighted the importance of India-US relations, pointing out that India has resilience, strength, and great potential as the fastest-growing economy in the world.

When it comes to our strategic autonomy, govt's stand is clear: EAM Jaishankar

In a strong rejection of criticism by Western countries, particularly the United States, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar vigorously defended India's energy trade policies such as its continued import of Russian crude and export of refined oil products. Emphasizing India's firm position, he stated, "when it comes to the interests of farmers, when it comes to our strategic autonomy, our stand is clear."

Addressing the Economic Times World Leaders Forum 2025, Jaishankar emphasized that India will not succumb to external pressure or double standards in protecting its economic and energy interests.

While reacting to recent statements by Trump administration officials aimed at India's oil commerce with Russia, he said, "If you have a problem buying oil or refined products from India, don't buy it. Nobody forces you to buy it."

The sharp comment was part of a broader statement that India has the right to make its trade policy according to its own national interest.

Pleading the cause of inconsistency in Washington's criticism, Jaishankar claimed that since China is still the largest importer of Russian crude, it has not been held under the same microscope.

"We are not the biggest buyer. Others are also doing this. So, why us?" he asked, emphasizing that India's energy buying is driven by market forces and need.

Noting the irony further, he observed, "It's ironic to have individuals who work for a pro-business American administration accusing other individuals of conducting business."

Emphasizing the point in the speech, he declared, "Europe buys, America buys, so you don't like it, don't buy it."

Aside from energy, Jaishankar also confirmed the government's stand on safeguarding local agriculture and maintaining national sovereignty. "When the trade is concerned, farmers' interests, when our strategic autonomy is concerned, when anti-mediation stance is concerned, this government is very clear," he said.

He then invited skeptics to be transparent with the Indian people regarding their stance, asserting, "If anybody disagrees with us, please inform the people of India that you are not willing to uphold the interests of farmers. Please inform the people of India you don't cherish strategic autonomy. We do. We will do whatever we must do to preserve it."