India-US talks ‘positive’ for ‘early conclusion’ of BTA: MEA on Delhi-DC trade negotiations

India on Thursday described the ongoing India-US trade negotiations as “positive” and “forward-looking,” saying that both countries are working toward the early conclusion of a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).

Addressing a weekly briefing on Friday, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “A team from United States Trade Representative led by Assistant USTR Brenden Lynch had meetings at the Ministry of Commerce on 16 September 2025 to take forward the ongoing negotiations for a trade deal with the US. The discussions were positive and forward looking covering various aspects of the trade deal.”

“It was decided to intensify efforts to achieve early conclusion of a mutually beneficial Trade Agreement,” he added.

The Ministry of External Affairs also addressed a wide range of other key international developments.

Commenting on the tragic incident of an Indian techie shot dead by police in California, Jaiswal said, “We are in touch with the local authorities and the family of the deceased.”

#WATCH | On the Indian techie shot dead by US Police in California, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, “We are in touch with the local authorities and the family of the deceased.” pic.twitter.com/XmYA9frDUT

— ANI (@ANI) September 19, 2025

He added that Indian officials are closely monitoring the case to ensure necessary assistance is provided.

On the recent appearance of videos linked to Pakistan-based terror outfits Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaiswal said “On terrorism matters, we are clear that the world is aware of the nexus between the terrorists and the Pakistani state and the military.”

#WATCH | On recent videos of Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba from Pakistan, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, “On terrorism matters, we are clear that the world is aware of the nexus between the terrorists and the Pakistani state and the military.” pic.twitter.com/dASMKeialn

— ANI (@ANI) September 19, 2025

In a broader reference to regional security, he added: “We all have to fight cross-border terrorism and terrorism… We call upon the world that we have to intensify our efforts to deal with terrorism.”

Asked about the Saudi Arabia-Pakistan agreement, Jaiswal reaffirmed India’s strong ties with Riyadh.

#WATCH | On the Saudi Arabia-Pakistan Agreement, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, “India and Saudi Arabia have a wide-ranging strategic partnership which has deepened considerably in the last several years. We expect that this strategic partnership will keep in mind mutual… pic.twitter.com/qxoTg3XzN2

— ANI (@ANI) September 19, 2025

“India and Saudi Arabia have a wide-ranging strategic partnership which has deepened considerably in the last several years. We expect that this strategic partnership will keep in mind mutual interests and sensitivities,” said Jaiswal.

On political developments in Kathmandu, Jaiswal said India welcomes the formation of a new interim Government in Nepal, led by Sushila Karki.

“The PM had a warm conversation with PM Karki and reaffirmed India’s steadfast support for her efforts to restore peace and stability,” said Jaiswal.

He emphasised India’s commitment as a close neighbour and development partner to Nepal’s prosperity.

Asked about threats issued by Khalistani elements to Indian consulates in Canada, Jaiswal said, “It is the responsibility of the Canadian government to provide security. As and when there is a concern, we take it up with the concerned side.”

He confirmed that National Security Advisers (NSAs) from both countries recently held talks as part of regular bilateral security consultations.

Regarding the US decision to revoke a sanctions waiver for the Chabahar Port in Iran — an infrastructure project of strategic importance for India — Jaiswal said, “We have seen the US press statement regarding revocation of sanctions waiver for Chahbahar Port. We are presently examining its implications for India.”

#WATCH | MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, “We have seen the US press statement regarding revocation of sanctions waiver for Chahbahar Port. We are presently examining its implications for India.” pic.twitter.com/6LRXD19gdV

— ANI (@ANI) September 19, 2025

Commenting on India’s participation in the upcoming Zapad 2025 military exercise, he noted that it was not unusual for India to be involved.

“I would also like to point out that several other countries, including Nato members, such as the US, Turkey, and Hungary, are also participating in the exercise as observers,” he added.

With inputs from agencies