Mon Nov 04 14:44:14 UTC 2024: ## Trump or Harris: What Does a US Election Mean for India?
With the US Presidential Election heating up, the potential impact on India’s relationship with the US is a key talking point. While both candidates, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, are neck and neck, their approach to India could vary significantly.
**Harris: Continuity with Biden**
A Harris presidency is likely to continue the policies established by President Biden, focusing on issues like democratic norms and human rights, engaging with groups who share those concerns. However, there might be a stronger emphasis on these issues in response to the actions of the Modi government.
**Trump: A More Transactional Approach**
A second Trump administration is likely to bring about more significant changes, particularly in areas like trade, energy, and the iCET initiative. Trump’s approach to global conflicts, especially regarding Russia and China, will also have a major impact on India.
**Space Cooperation: A Shared Goal**
The iCET initiative, launched in 2023, is likely to continue regardless of the election outcome. This includes cooperation in space exploration, an area where both candidates have shown support. However, Trump’s emphasis on US manufacturing might create friction points with India’s iCET projects, particularly in sectors like semiconductor fabrication.
**Trade: A Key Area of Difference**
Trump is known for his preference for trade deals, likely seeking a deal with India, possibly a limited-scope one. He is also expected to push for tariff equalization across product categories, potentially impacting India’s trade balance.
**China and Russia: Uncertain Outcomes**
Trump’s stance on China is complex. While he has spoken about getting along with President Xi Jinping, he is also likely to continue his economic competition with China. His approach to Taiwan and potential conflicts with China remains uncertain.
Regarding Russia, Trump’s potential actions regarding the Ukraine war are unclear. His desire for a swift end to the conflict, potentially at the expense of Ukraine, could impact India’s relationship with Russia, particularly its increased oil purchases from Russia.
**Overall, a Trump victory could lead to more significant changes in the US-India relationship, with a greater emphasis on trade deals and US interests. While a Harris administration would likely see a continuation of Biden’s policies, a potential shift towards a more assertive approach towards India on issues like human rights and democratic norms cannot be discounted.**
**This article highlights the potential ramifications of a Trump or Harris presidency on India, emphasizing the importance of understanding the diverse and complex nature of the US-India relationship.**
First Piper 