US Trade Representative to Visit India for Trade Deal Talks
NEW DELHI: US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will hold talks with commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal next week to give final touches to the first tranche of the bilateral trade deal, a top official said Monday. Greer is likely to land in the capital on Monday, with talks scheduled for June 23 and 24, commerce secretary Rajesh Agrawal told reporters.
Our expectation is that discussions will be centered around giving final touches to the framework deal, which has been discussed during the visit of their US delegation, and also on the larger bilateral trade agreement, which has also been under discussions between the two sides, Agrawal said.
The first tranche of the trade deal is expected to cover a range of issues, including tariff reductions and market access for goods and services. Both sides have been working to strengthen economic ties and resolve trade disputes through the bilateral trade agreement.
Greer's visit follows several rounds of negotiations between US and Indian officials. The US delegation had earlier visited India to discuss the framework deal, and this round aims to finalize the details. The larger bilateral trade agreement is also expected to be addressed, though it may take more time to conclude.
The trade deal is seen as a significant step in US-India relations, with both countries aiming to boost bilateral trade and investment. India has been seeking greater market access for its goods, especially in agriculture and textiles, while the US is looking for more opportunities in services and intellectual property protection.
Commerce secretary Rajesh Agrawal emphasized that the talks would focus on finalizing the first tranche, which is expected to be a comprehensive package. He added that the discussions would also cover the broader framework for the bilateral trade agreement, which would be negotiated in subsequent phases.
