US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau stated at Raisina Dialogue 2026 that Washington will not repeat its “20-year-old mistake” with China while finalizing a trade deal with India, prioritizing American interests in a reciprocal partnership.
Lessons from China
Landau warned against allowing one-sided market access that lets partners dominate commercially, as allegedly occurred with China: “We’re not going to make the same mistakes with India… whatever we do, it’s fair to our people.” He emphasized accountability to voters, mirroring India’s domestic priorities under PM Modi.
Deal Progress and Vision
The bilateral trade agreement nears completion, slashing US tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18% and lifting 25% penalties on Russian oil buys, in exchange for India pledging $500 billion in US energy, aircraft, and tech over five years. “America First doesn’t mean America alone,” Landau noted, aligning Trump’s “Make America Great Again” with India’s growth ambitions amid its rise as a 21st-century power.
Mutual Benefits
Landau highlighted win-win opportunities in energy to address India’s Middle East supply disruptions and broader ties, rejecting altruism for strategic alignment. This framework builds on tariff cuts from last month, fostering deeper economic engagement.
