It may sound cliché, but diplomacy is truly the art of the impossible — and diplomats thrive in the toughest negotiations. Indian diplomacy now faces a critical test. The outcome of the ongoing trade talks with the US carries immense stakes: India’s growth trajectory could be affected, while Washington risks alienating a trusted partner. Yet, there is a silver lining. The recent exchange of birthday pleasantries between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump, coupled with affirmations of friendship and global partnership, offers a promising start.

But beneath the warmth of words lies hard realities: the ongoing India-US trade talks are burdened by deep differences that cannot be bridged by rhetoric........

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