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Key Points

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has met with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in New York. Their discussions focused on moving forward with the first part of a trade agreement between the two nations. These high-level talks come just after lower-level officials met in Delhi to prepare the ground. The trade negotiations are happening alongside new US visa policies that have raised concerns in India.

Key Points: Goyal Greer Meet in New York to Advance India US Trade Deal

  • Ministers Goyal and Greer negotiate the first part of a new India-US trade agreement
  • Talks follow recent Delhi discussions between chief negotiators Agrawal and Lynch
  • New US H-1B visa fee causes initial confusion but White House clarifies it's one-time
  • India's MEA expresses concern over humanitarian impact of the new visa measure
  • Trade discussions resumed after a recent birthday phone call between Modi and Trump
3 min read

Commerce Minister Goyal meets US Trade Representative Greer in New York

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal meets US Trade Rep Jamieson Greer to negotiate a trade pact, as talks intensify despite new H-1B visa fee concerns.

"“positive discussions were held on various aspects of the trade deal, and it was decided to intensify efforts in this regard.” - Indian Readout"

Washington, Sep 23

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal met US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in New York to negotiate the first tranche of a trade agreement between the two sides, sources say.

Sources also told IANS that the meeting focused on addressing key sticking points, and both sides remain hopeful of reaching an interim understanding soon.

Both India and the US are yet to issue official statements about the latest meeting.

The talks come days after US Assistant Trade Representative for South and Central Asia Brendan Lynch held trade talks with India’s chief trade negotiator Rajesh Agrawal in Delhi.

The Indian readout of the meeting said that “positive discussions were held on various aspects of the trade deal, and it was decided to intensify efforts in this regard.”

However, the talks have been overshadowed by the Trump administration’s decision to significantly curtail the H-1B visa program.

US President Donald Trump on Friday signed a proclamation imposing a $100,000 fee for each new application.

The proclamation caused immense confusion over the weekend as it seemed to suggest that it would impact the current H-1B visa holders who may face hurdles in returning to the United States.

The White House issued a clarification to IANS on Saturday, saying that this is a “one-time fee” that applies only to new visas and not renewals or current visa holders.

“This is a one-time fee that applies only to the petition. It ONLY applies to new visas, not renewals or current visa holders. It will first apply in the next upcoming lottery cycle,” a White House official told IANS.

The Ministry of External Affairs had also issued a statement, saying the measure is “likely to have humanitarian consequences.”

Trade talks between the two countries have resumed after US President Donald Trump called Prime Minister Narendra Modi to wish him on his 75th birthday on September 16.

Prime Minister Modi, in a post on X, termed Trump as his “friend” and thanked him for the wishes.

“Thank you, my friend, President Trump, for your phone call and warm greetings on my 75th birthday. Like you, I am also fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights. We support your initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict,” PM Modi wrote.

President Trump also posted on Truth Social, calling the phone call “wonderful” and thanked him for his support on attempting to end the conflict in Ukraine.

“Just had a wonderful phone call with my friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I wished him a very Happy Birthday! He is doing a tremendous job. Narendra: Thank you for your support on ending the War between Russia and Ukraine! President DJT,” he said.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
The $100,000 visa fee is absolutely ridiculous! This will hit Indian IT professionals hard. While trade talks are important, our government should prioritize protecting the interests of Indian citizens working abroad.
M
Michael C
Interesting development. From an American perspective, we need balanced trade that protects US jobs while maintaining good relations with India. The personal chemistry between Trump and Modi seems positive for negotiations.
A
Ananya R
Hope our negotiators are focusing on market access for Indian agricultural products and pharmaceuticals. We have so much to offer! The visa issue should not derail the broader strategic partnership. 🤝
S
Sarah B
The clarification about H-1B fees only applying to new visas is helpful, but the initial confusion shows how sensitive these policies are. Trade agreements need stability, not sudden policy changes.
V
Vikram M
While I support stronger India-US ties, I'm concerned about the timing. With elections in both countries, are we getting the best deal or just a quick political victory? Our negotiators should think long-term.
K
Kavya N
The personal rapport between leaders is good, but let's not forget substantive issues. We need better market access for our goods and protection for our intellectual property. Jai Hind! 🙏

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