Sat Jul 05 01:04:29 UTC 2025: ## India Navigates Trade, Security Concerns Amidst Global Turmoil

**New Delhi, July 5, 2025** – India is asserting its strategic autonomy on the global stage as it navigates complex trade negotiations and heightened security challenges.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated emphatically on Friday that India would only agree to a trade deal with the U.S. if it serves the nation’s best interests. He stressed that New Delhi would not be pressured by deadlines. The statement comes amidst ongoing negotiations for Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the European Union, New Zealand, Oman, Chile, and Peru. Mr. Goyal emphasized that FTAs must be mutually beneficial “win-win” agreements.

Defense concerns were also in focus, with Lieutenant General Rahul R. Singh highlighting the lessons learned from “Operation Sindoor,” where India faced Pakistan supported by China and Türkiye. Speaking at a FICCI event, Lt. Gen. Singh underscored the urgent need for indigenization of defense technology and a robust air defense system to prepare for future conflicts.

Meanwhile, on the international front:

* **US Tax Overhaul:** President Trump signed his massive tax breaks and spending cuts into law, securing a major legislative victory.
* **Gaza Ceasefire:** Hamas has responded positively to a new ceasefire proposal for Gaza but seeks further implementation talks.
* **Texas Flooding:** Devastating flash floods in Texas have claimed at least 13 lives, with many still missing.
* **China Imposes Tariffs:** China has imposed anti-dumping duties on European brandy, escalating trade tensions.
* **UK Political Shift:** Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn is reportedly exploring the formation of a new political party, citing dissatisfaction with the current government.

Domestically, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the global community at the Joint Assembly of Parliament of Trinidad & Tobago, emphasizing the need for unity against terrorism. He also announced that the Caribbean nation would be a priority for India.

The Allahabad High Court dismissed a plea concerning the Mathura-based Shahi Idgah mosque, while a fire in Uttar Pradesh’s Gautam Buddh Nagar district was quickly contained, with a teenage girl rescued. In Bihar, leaders of the INDIA bloc expressed concerns over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, alleging a conspiracy to disenfranchise certain segments of the population.

Finally, on the cricket pitch, India holds a commanding 244-run lead over England at the end of day three of the second Test at Edgbaston.

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