India map and Pakistan’s red face: How Donald Trump’s team’s move embarrasses Islamabad
Trump administration, following the India-US trade deal, shared Indian map that shows entire Jammu and Kashmir, including Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK), as part of the country.
India map and Pakistan’s red face: How Donald Trump’s team’s move embarrasses Islamabad
Washington DC: The United States and India announced a framework for an interim trade deal that is reciprocal and mutually beneficial, showing fresh progress toward a wider bilateral trade agreement following months of crucial talks and recent tariff tensions. The Trump administration has silently garnered attention for its intent after it shared a map of India. While releasing the landmark trade deal details, US trade representatives also shared a map of India showing features of the entire Jammu and Kashmir, including Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK), as part of the country. Not only that the map also included Aksai Chin, which China claims to be part of its territory.
It is to be noted that India has always maintained its stand that Kashmir is its inalienable part. Still, this move reflects a shift from Washington's earlier position. Whether the US did it intentionally or not, it sends a strong message to the neighbouring Pakistan that the Trump administration 'support' India's map, which shows all of Kashmir as its integral part.
What Is The Politics Behind It? Why Does US Map Of India Matter?
Earlier, the maps released by the US departments used to show POK, in line with Pakistan's concerns. However, the latest map clearly features POK as India's integral part.
It is also worth mentioning that the timing of the release is also crucial, as India and the US are trying to strengthen their ties following months-long turbulent period. Earlier, the US imposed 50 percent tariff on India, however, in the current deal, the tariff has been slashed to 18 percent, the lowest among the Asian countries.
Also Read: 'Great news': PM Modi hails India-US trade deal framework, thanks Trump for
Aksai Chin Region As Part Of India
Additionally, the US map also features the disputed Aksai Chin region as part of India. The region is located in the northeastern part of Ladakh. China claims that the region is part of its territory, ignoring India's objections.
What Did Experts Say On US?
Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has consistently raised its voice regarding the incorrect depiction of India's borders, specifically Jammu and Kashmir and Arunachal Pradesh on US maps.
According to Geopolitical and defence experts, it is a positive move by the US. "Trade and all is secondary. This map is a departure from the US stand showing POK as part of Pakistan!" a journalist tweeted.
Benefits That Will India Get From Interim Trade Framework
- Now, reciprocal tariffs will be reduced to 18 percent, improving market access for Indian exporters.
- Tariff cut on generic pharmaceuticals, gems & diamonds and aircraft parts.
- Indian exporters will get expanded entry into the US market. This will benefit MSMEs, farmers, fishermen, women.
- To boost to key export sectors like - leather and footwear, plastic and rubber products, organic chemicals, home decor and artisanal goods and select machinery.
- New Delhi will get exemptions under US Section 232 for aircraft parts.
- Preferential access for some auto components into America.
- Revised and improved terms and tariffs for Indian generic pharmaceuticals.
- No tariff concessions on maize, wheat, rice, soya, poultry, meat, milk, cheese (dairy), ethanol (fuel) and tobacco.
What India Will Offer To US
- India to cut tariffs on all US industrial goods and agricultural products. This includes DDGs, sorghum, nuts, fruits, soybean oil, wine and spirits.
- Sustained preferential market access in key sectors of interest.
- India to buy USD 500 billion worth of US products. This include - energy, aircraft, precious metals, and technology products.
- The US and India will set clear rules of origin, strengthen regulatory coordination, and widen market access as they continue talks on the broader bilateral trade agreement.
- Both countries to provide each other with preferential market access.
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