NEW DELHI: The United States on Monday described its ties with India as a “defining relationship of the 21st century”, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the SCO Summit in Tianjin.Taking to social media platform X, the embassy wrote, “The partnership between the United States and India continues to reach new heights — a defining relationship of the 21st century. This month, we’re spotlighting the people, progress, and possibilities driving us forward. From innovation and entrepreneurship to defense and bilateral ties, it’s the enduring friendship between our two peoples that fuels this journey. Follow the hashtag and be a part of #USIndiaFWDforOurPeople.”The embassy also quoted US secretary of state Marco Rubio, who said, “The enduring friendship between our two peoples is the bedrock of our cooperation and propels us forward as we realise the tremendous potential of our economic relationship.”The statement comes at a time when trade ties have been strained by new tariffs imposed by US president Donald Trump’s administration. Earlier on Monday, PM Modi was seen sharing warm exchanges with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit 2025 in Tianjin. The three leaders greeted each other with handshakes, hugs and smiles in a rare show of camaraderie. Posting photos on X, PM Modi said, “Interactions in Tianjin continue! Exchanging perspectives with President Putin and President Xi during the SCO Summit.” In a widely circulated video, PM Modi was seen pulling Putin and Xi together in a symbolic gesture of unity. The US had imposed 25% tariffs on Indian imports to the US, however, he later announced an additional 25% tariff alleging that India’s Russian oil purchase helped in fueling Putin’s war machine, taking the total to 50%. The latest duties on Indian goods came into effect on 27 August, after a notice from the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), ANI reported.US President Donald Trump has often called India a “tariff king” and pointed to the trade deficit as well as India’s purchase of Russian oil and military equipment as reasons for the move.PM Modi, meanwhile, assured that the government would protect small entrepreneurs, farmers, and livestock rearers. In Parliament, commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal told members that the impact of the tariffs is being studied and that all steps will be taken to protect the national interest.Both countries have been negotiating for an interim trade deal over the past few months. India, however, has raised concerns about the US demand to open up its agriculture and dairy sectors, which are key for the livelihood of millions of people.Talks for a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) between the two nations started in March this year and the aim is to finish the first stage by October–November 2025.
