Davos [Switzerland], January 19 (ANI): President and CEO of the US‑India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) Mukesh Aghi said on Monday that while negotiations on an India‑United States trade agreement are “complex,” both countries are actively talking to find a path forward, and that the broader India‑US relationship extends far beyond trade.
Speaking to ANI on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, Aghi emphasized that trade is only one aspect of the bilateral partnership, which also encompasses people‑to‑people ties, technology cooperation, and investment. He noted that both sides are engaged in dialogue to move trade discussions ahead, despite challenges in the current environment.
“It’s a complex environment and I think both countries are talking to find a way to take the trade discussion forward, but I remind you that the relationship between India and the US is not just about trade. It’s much broader. It’s on people to people. It’s on technology. It’s a business investment between two countries. I would say trade is one aspect. But I think if we can sort that out, it’s going to get much smoother,” he said.
Expressing optimism about resolving outstanding issues, Aghi said a solution is likely to emerge, pointing out that the current status quo without an agreement harms exports on both sides.
“I believe that you will see some kind of a solution coming in because you can’t maintain the current status quo of having no agreement. It harms India’s exports. It affects US exports to India. We will find a solution,” he said.
The remarks align with other reports suggesting that negotiations on an India‑US trade deal, including a proposed bilateral trade agreement (BTA) aimed at expanding trade and investment, are advancing and could conclude in the coming months as officials work through detailed terms. Some analysts at WEF 2026 have even indicated that an agreement could materialize within about three months. (Business Today)
Aghi also discussed broader global instability and trade dynamics at Davos, noting that tools such as tariffs are just one factor in geopolitical uncertainty. He highlighted that crises often lead to shifts in global power and that India has opportunities to rise strategically amid current turmoil.
Aghi’s comments come amid ongoing discussions at the 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum, which is drawing nearly 3,000 participants, including world leaders, CEOs, innovators, and policymakers, under the theme “A Spirit of Dialogue.” (Business Today)
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