Tue Sep 16 02:30:00 UTC 2025: **U.S. Official Claims India “Coming to the Table” on Trade Amidst Tensions**

**New Delhi, September 16, 2025** – U.S. White House Trade Advisor Peter Navarro stated on Sunday that India is ready to negotiate on trade issues, following what he described as a “conciliatory” tweet from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a response from President Trump. In an interview with CNBC, Navarro highlighted ongoing discussions regarding trade barriers, accusing India of having “the highest tariffs of any major country” and significant non-tariff barriers.

Navarro also criticized India’s increased purchase of Russian oil since 2022, alleging that Indian refiners are profiting from the situation while indirectly funding Russia’s military through weapon purchases. He expressed concerns about India’s ties with both Russia and China, questioning Prime Minister Modi’s recent appearance alongside Chinese and Russian leaders.

Despite these criticisms, the U.S. Assistant Trade Representative for South and Central Asia, Brendan Lynch, is scheduled to arrive in India on Tuesday to continue negotiations on a Bilateral Trade Agreement. Trade talks are expected to commence on the same day, with Rajesh Agrawal, Special Secretary in the Department of Commerce, leading the Indian delegation. The discussions aim to resolve trade disputes and foster stronger economic ties between the two nations.

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