'Ties set to reach new heights': Rajnath Singh congratulates India, US on trade deal, says it will open 'chapter of greater economic cooperation'

Rajnath Singh

• India and US finalize trade deal, lowering tariffs on Indian goods to 18%
• Leaders hail the deal as a boost to economic ties and strategic partnership
• Modi thanks Trump for supporting reduced tariffs on Made in India products

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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday congratulated India and US on what he called a "historic trade deal" that came through late on Monday night.

Taking to X, Singh wrote, "A landmark moment for India-US relations as a historic trade deal has been finalised, bringing tariffs down to a significantly lower 18% and opening a new chapter of deeper and greater economic cooperation."

"I congratulate Prime Minister @narendramodi and US President @realDonaldTrump

on reaching this decisive agreement, which will significantly strengthen our strategic partnership and deliver tangible benefits to both the countries and their people. With this agreement, India–US economic ties are set to reach new heights," the X post further read.

US President Donald Trump on Monday night announced a reduction in reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent, lowering the rate from 25 per cent. The development came following a phone conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and what he described as the sealing of a trade deal between the two countries.

Sharing details of the call on Truth Social, Trump said, “Out of friendship and respect for Prime Minister Modi and, as per his request, effective immediately, we agreed to a Trade Deal between the United States and India, whereby the United States will charge a reduced Reciprocal Tariff, lowering it from 25 percent to 18 percent.”

Shortly after, Prime Minister Modi also took to X to announce the same. "Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18%. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement," the X post said.

"When two large economies and the world’s largest democracies work together, it benefits our people and unlocks immense opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation. President Trump’s leadership is vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity. India fully supports his efforts for peace. I look forward to working closely with him to take our partnership to unprecedented heights," it further read.