India's Measured Trade Strategy Amid Global Pressures

India is carefully negotiating trade agreements, like the one with the European Union, to protect its trading choices. While facing pressure from Western nations regarding Russian oil imports, India emphasizes energy security and is adjusting its Russian oil imports in response to new U.S. sanctions.

In a strategic approach to international commerce, India will not rush into signing new trade agreements, as highlighted by Trade Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday. India rejects conditions imposed by partner countries that could limit its trading options.

At the center of these talks is a long-pending free trade agreement with the European Union, with key issues such as market access, environmental standards, and rules of origin still unresolved. Discussions are also ongoing with the United States, which has imposed significant tariffs on Indian exports, and other nations.

Amid Western pressure to reduce Russian oil imports, Goyal emphasized India's deliberate approach at the Berlin Global Dialogue. India, valuing energy security, is now adjusting its imports to align with new U.S. sanctions against Russian oil producers.

(With inputs from agencies.)