**India’s Top Diplomat Highlights Challenges in US Relations**
In a recent address at the Asia Society in New York, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar articulated key concerns that are hindering the relationship between India and the United States. He emphasized a perceived lack of "understanding or appreciation or empathy" from the US regarding India's longstanding issues with cross-border terrorism, particularly in relation to its neighbor, Pakistan.
Jaishankar pointed out that few countries have faced the level of terrorism that India has endured, which he described as stemming from a "deliberate, conscious policy" over several decades. This assertion comes in the context of ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly following the Pahalgam attack in April 2025, which New Delhi attributed to Pakistan. The incident led to a series of military exchanges between the two nations, with Islamabad denying any involvement.
The External Affairs Minister's comments follow a recent address by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the UN General Assembly, where he raised issues related to Kashmir, criticized India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, and credited former US President Donald Trump with playing a role in resolving the 2025 conflict between the two countries. In response, Jaishankar refrained from naming Pakistan directly but referred to it as a "serial practitioner of terrorism," asserting India's right to defend itself against such threats.
This ongoing issue of cross-border terrorism has historically strained India-US relations. Reports indicate that New Delhi had previously expressed its concerns when Trump hosted Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, at the White House in June 2025. Indian officials warned that closer engagement with Pakistan could send a misleading signal regarding the US's stance on cross-border terrorism, with one official describing the issue as a "red line" for India.
In addition to security concerns, trade relations between India and the US have also faced challenges. Jaishankar noted that while both countries have reached a "more or less an understanding" on a proposed trade agreement, changes in the US tariff framework have introduced new complications. He acknowledged that these developments have led to "bumps" in the relationship over the past year.
Mobility issues are another area that Jaishankar identified as influencing public perceptions of the India-US relationship. He remarked that while the economic benefits of bilateral ties are significant, political sensitivities surrounding these issues are diverging, complicating the overall dynamic.
Despite these challenges, Jaishankar expressed optimism about the future of India-US relations, stating that he expects the partnership to continue on an "upward trajectory." His comments come at a time when Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is set to embark on a visit to the US aimed at advancing the bilateral trade agreement and finalizing an interim deal. Goyal is scheduled to meet with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer during his trip.
As both nations navigate these complex issues, the focus remains on fostering a stronger partnership that addresses mutual concerns while enhancing economic ties.