Indian delegation will go to America to negotiate trading transaction

New -delhi, October 13 (IANS). India and the US are making steady progress in their discussions to finalize the first phase of the proposed bilateral trade agreement (BTA). A team of Indian officials is likely to leave for Washington DC this week for further discussions on the trade agreement. A government official said: “The talks between the two countries are progressing in a very good atmosphere.” India has offered to increase US oil and gas imports, which will help compensate the trade surplus and also help the country diversify its energy resources to ensure reliable offering amid geopolitical uncertainties. India is also likely to get more renewable energy technologies from the US as part of the trading package, which will help the country fight climate change. This development came to light after new US Ambassador Sergio Gore took the lead at the US Embassy in New Delhi. Gore met Premier Narendra Modi last week and discussed bilateral issues, including defense, trade and technology. The importance of critical minerals that are essential for both countries was also discussed during the meeting. Gore said: “The United States appreciates our relationship with India, and under the strong leadership of President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Modi, I am optimistic about the future for both countries. President Trump considers Premier Modi as a great and personal friend.” Earlier in September, a team of US officials visited New -Delhi to negotiate a trade transaction, after which an Indian delegation led by the Minister of Trade, Piyush Goyal, went to Washington. During the discussions with China, India made concessions to the US, including an offer to import more US defense and energy products. On September 16, a US delegation, led by US trade representative Brendan Lynch, met Indian trade officials led by chief negotiator Rajesh Agarwal in New -Delhi amid an defrost in relations to President Trump’s conciliatory approach. Lynch’s visit comes against the backdrop of increasing hope of a trade agreement to positive messages from US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi after days of horrible stance. Trump said in a post on Truth Social on September 9 that negotiations continue and “I trust that there will be no problems making a successful conclusion for both of our big countries.” –IANS ABS/