Political analyst Fareed Zakaria highlighted a significant opportunity for India following Trump’s pledge to impose high tariffs on imports from China. He advocates for India to negotiate a Free Trade Agreement with the U.S. to foster economic growth. Zakaria criticizes India’s protectionist policies and encourages alignment with democratic values to enhance trade relations and access technology. He concludes that India must embrace a liberal trade stance to compete effectively in the global market.

In light of President-elect Donald Trump’s commitment to impose significant tariffs on imports from China, political analyst Fareed Zakaria has identified a pivotal opportunity for India. Speaking at the Express Adda event in Mumbai, Zakaria noted that while the tariffs would severely impact China, they could facilitate a more favorable environment for India to enhance its trade relations with the United States. He suggested that India should consider pursuing a Free Trade Agreement with the U.S. during this period, leveraging the shifting dynamics in global trade relations. During his conversation with Indian Express executives Anant Goenka and Shubhajit Roy, Zakaria elaborated on the impending economic changes, asserting, “There is a golden opportunity here for India.” He emphasized that while tariffs are set across the board, China would bear the brunt, presenting India with a chance to negotiate advantageous trade agreements. Zakaria expressed that limiting protectionist policies in India could potentially yield significant economic benefits, acquiring greater access to American technology and markets. Zakaria characterized India as the world’s most protectionist large economy, attributing this stance to resistance from powerful domestic industries fearing competition. He argued that if the threat of U.S. tariffs compels India to liberalize its markets, it could stimulate vital growth in various sectors. He asserted, “The age of multilateral trade is over. What you are going to have is these bilateral trade deals, and India could be positioned to do a good one.” He reasoned that such a move would not only enhance India’s competitive standing against China but foster economic growth and international collaboration. Regarding India’s foreign policy, Zakaria called for a definitive alignment with democratic values over an ambiguous multi-alignment approach. He contended that a strong relationship with Western nations, particularly the U.S., was crucial for India’s economic advancement. He stated that India’s continued development hinges upon its integration into high-tech industries, predominantly dominated by Western nations. He insisted, “The Americans have been very understanding of India’s foreign policy,” advocating for cooperation grounded in shared democratic principles. Despite recognizing China’s role in facilitating Indo-U.S. relations, Zakaria underscored the importance of shared values between India and the United States. He affirmed India’s supportive stance towards the U.S., with an impressive 75% favorability rating among Indians. Conclusively, Zakaria expressed that Trump’s favorable disposition towards India could strengthen bilateral relations, particularly concerning trade. Looking ahead, he articulated a profound inquiry he would pose to Prime Minister Modi regarding nurturing India’s pluralistic identity amidst diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds, emphasizing the significance of fostering inclusivity within national policies.

The article discusses the potential implications of President-elect Donald Trump’s decision to introduce high tariffs on Chinese imports, a move that political analyst Fareed Zakaria believes could benefit India significantly. Zakaria speaks about India’s opportunity to negotiate a Free Trade Agreement with the U.S. as tariffs start impacting China. He expresses concerns regarding India’s protectionist stance and argues for a strategic alignment with Western democratic nations to leverage economic growth and technological advancements.

In conclusion, Fareed Zakaria posits that India is presented with a significant opportunity due to the impending U.S. tariffs on China. By pursuing more liberal trade relations and negotiating a Free Trade Agreement with the United States, India could enhance its economic landscape substantially. Furthermore, aligning closely with democratic values could facilitate technological advancements and economic integration, positioning India favorably in a changing global economy. Zakaria’s insights suggest a transformative period for India’s trade policies, contingent on strategic negotiations and openness to global partnerships.

Original Source: indianexpress.com

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