The Indian foreign ministry expressed concern over the Trump administration’s new $100,000 annual fee on H-1B worker visas, citing potential humanitarian consequences and family disruptions. India, the largest beneficiary of H-1B visas, is studying the policy’s full implications and hopes for suitable solutions. The abrupt implementation timeline has also raised concerns from India’s leading trade body, Nasscom, which fears disruptions to ongoing projects. The new measure, which will likely face legal challenges, is part of a broader overhaul of the temporary employment visa system and could potentially hamper the US’s position in the AI race.
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During a G7 meeting, the United States proposed imposing increased tariffs on China and India due to their continued purchases of Russian oil. Japan’s Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato expressed that Japan would not support this action due to its commitment to WTO guidelines. Japan imports a small amount of oil from Russia and considers the Sakhalin-2 project a key LNG supplier, which is not subject to sanctions. G7 representatives are currently formulating a new sanctions package, aiming to finalize it within the next two weeks.
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India to Switzerland: Don’t preach on minorities while ignoring your own. The crux of the matter, distilled from the various opinions swirling around, is a pointed exchange between India and Switzerland at the UN Human Rights Council. Switzerland, in its role as the current UNHRC president, brought up concerns about India’s treatment of minorities and freedom of expression. This prompted a rather unexpected response from India, a response that, frankly, raised eyebrows and set the stage for a broader discussion about hypocrisy and the complexities of international diplomacy.
India, in its reply, wasn’t shy about turning the tables. Instead of directly addressing Switzerland’s concerns, the Indian diplomat delivered a message of sorts, stating that India, as a “vibrant democracy,” was ready to help Switzerland with its own issues, specifically citing racism, systematic discrimination, and xenophobia.… Continue reading
President Zelenskyy expressed support for potential U.S. tariffs on countries, including India, that continue to engage in trade with Russia, particularly concerning oil imports. This followed Prime Minister Modi’s appearance at a summit alongside Russian President Putin, amidst India’s growing diplomatic efforts to mediate an end to the conflict. Washington officials hinted at imminent sanctions against nations aiding Russia, citing India’s purchase of Russian oil as a potential target. Furthermore, India has become Ukraine’s top diesel supplier, adding complexity to the situation as the U.S. considers tariffs on Indian goods.
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According to the Ukrainian ambassador to India, Ukraine understands India’s need to defend its national interests regarding Russian oil purchases and is not pressuring New Delhi. He stated any issues arising from this can be discussed bilaterally, highlighting the regular communication between leaders. Despite tensions, discussions on the matter are seen as akin to family matters, solvable through negotiation. Additionally, the ambassador confirmed ongoing efforts to schedule a visit by President Zelenskyy to India and noted the lack of clarity on potential peace negotiations between Zelenskyy and Putin.
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In a recent Truth Social post, former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed concern over the perceived alignment of India, Russia, and China. Trump’s comments followed the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit where the leaders of these nations met. The summit saw the leaders discussing their relationships and shared concerns regarding the U.S., especially regarding the war in Ukraine and trade practices. Trump has previously voiced similar sentiments, accusing these countries of conspiring against the U.S.
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During a meeting at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi encouraged Russian President Vladimir Putin to work towards ending the war in Ukraine and establishing a lasting peace. Modi expressed his support for current initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict and emphasized the importance of expediting a cessation of hostilities. The leaders also discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation in economic, financial, and energy sectors, expressing satisfaction with the growth of their strategic partnership. Furthermore, Modi anticipated meeting Putin again later this year at the 23rd Annual Summit in India.
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In a recent cabinet meeting, President Trump criticized India’s trade practices, labeling the relationship a “totally one sided disaster.” He stated India offered to cut tariffs to zero, though it was too late, while also accusing India of buying Russian oil and arms. This critique followed the U.S.’s imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian exports, due to what the U.S. perceived as India’s high tariffs on American goods. Trump’s statements come amid souring relations and data showing a disparity in average tariffs between the two countries, further complicated by India’s stance on trade with Russia.
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For decades, the United States has cultivated a strong relationship with India, viewing it as a crucial ally. However, former President Trump’s actions, including claiming credit for resolving a conflict between India and Pakistan, imposing tariffs, and embracing Pakistan’s army chief, have damaged this relationship. This has resulted in uniting India’s political factions against the US, shattering Modi’s image, and harming the economic ties between the two nations. Despite the potential for long-term damage, India is likely to recover, but the trust built over three decades will take considerable time to restore. Ultimately, the lasting impact of these events may be the United States’ loss of a key ally.
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Former President Donald Trump has expressed displeasure with India’s growing ties with Russia and China, particularly after Prime Minister Modi was seen with Putin and Jinping. Trump criticized the U.S.-India trade relationship as “one sided” due to India’s high tariffs, which he believes hinder American businesses. This shift in dynamics may be attributed to Trump’s imposition of tariffs on India, potentially driving them further into China’s sphere of influence, contrasting with President Biden’s recent praise for the U.S.-India partnership.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood