Sep 30, 2026 17:46 pm IST

Opinion | Why India Cannot Keep 'Overestimating' Its Value To Washington

Some of India's value to Washington came from the tension between the US and China. That is changing now.

Brig (Retd) Anil Raman Brig (Retd) Anil Raman Columnist

Brig (Retd) Anil Raman Columnist

A few days before Donald Trump met Xi Jinping in Washington, I argued in these pages that the summit would reveal how much Washington values India after negotiating with its main rival. I outlined three possible results: Trump could get a big concession from China, the two sides could reach a limited deal that keeps the rivalry going, or the talks could fail. The summit led to the second outcome, though it was less substantial than the White House ceremony suggested. For India, the most important development was about Taiwan. Now, Washington treats its support for a partner as something it can trade with Beijing. This shift means India should reconsider how it values itself to the United States.

Both sides agreed to extend their trade truce by just two months, which was less than most people expected. They also decided to create a working group on agricultural trade, with talks planned before the end of the year. Scott Kennedy from the Center for Strategic and International Studies called the results on trade, rare earths, refined oil, investment, and artificial intelligence limited and uncertain. Chinese analysts told reporters the relationship remains as tense as before.

A two-month extension means both sides must check in often. Each government can watch the other's actions and put pressure again if needed. Regular meetings between the two leaders help keep things stable. This was their second meeting this year, after Trump went to Beijing in May. Trump will visit China again for the APEC summit in........

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