‘Not accurate’: MEA rejects Lutnick’s Modi–Trump call claim, monitors US bill seeking 500% tariffs

Name: ‘Not accurate’: MEA rejects Lutnick’s Modi–Trump call claim, monitors US bill seeking 500% tariffs
Uploaded: 2026-01-09T16:12:41Z
Description: The MEA rejected US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick’s claim that India–US trade talks failed due to a lack of Modi–Trump contact, calling it “not accurate.” It said PM Modi spoke to Trump eight times in 2025 and India remains keen on a balanced trade deal. MEA also said it is monitoring the proposed US bill seeking 500% tariffs on Russian oil imports.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Friday rejected claims by US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick that an India–US trade deal failed because Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not directly call US President Donald Trump.

The MEA said the characterisation of the discussions was “not accurate” and stressed that India remains interested in a balanced and mutually beneficial trade agreement with the US. He also added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had spoken to President Trump by phone on eight occasions in 2025.

Responding to a media query on President Trump backing a proposed US bill seeking 500% tariffs and secondary sanctions on countries importing Russian oil, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India was fully aware of the legislation and was closely monitoring all related developments.

‘Not accurate’: MEA rejects Lutnick’s Modi–Trump call claim, monitors US bill seeking 500% tariffs

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