‘We'll cross that bridge when we come to it:' Jaishankar on US proposal to impose 500% tariffs

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S Jaishankar stressed that he would evaluate the Russia Sanctions Bill's impact when it becomes actionable, signalling a wait-and-watch approach read more
Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday (July 2) said New Delhi was engaging with American lawmakers over concerns related to the so-called Russia sanctions bill introduced in the US Congress. The bill seeks to impose 500 per cent tariffs on nations doing trade with Russia, potentially targeting countries like China and India, among others.
The bill has been proposed by Russia hawk Senator Lindsey Graham.
When asked about potential implications of the bill, Jaishankar said, 'We'll cross that bridge when we come to it." However, the top diplomat added that India has been in touch with Graham.
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'We've been in touch with Senator Lindsey Graham. The embassy, the ambassador — they have been in contact. Our concerns and interests, particularly on energy and security, have been made known to him," Jaishankar said during a press interaction.
The foreign minister stressed that he would evaluate the bill's impact when it becomes actionable, signalling a wait-and-watch approach.
Jaishankar meets US DNI Tulsi Gabbard, FBI chief Patel
On Wednesday, Jaishankar met top two intelligence officials in Washington DC.
After meeting with US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, Jaishankar wrote on X he had a 'good exchange on the global situation and our bilateral cooperation'.
The foreign minister also met Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Kash Patel.
Taking to X, EAM Jaishankar said it was great to meet Patel and they 'appreciate our strong cooperation in countering organised crime, drug trafficking and terrorism'.
Tulsi Gabbard, a former Congresswoman from Hawaii, and Kash Patel, who is of Indian descent, are both Hindus. India faces significant counterterrorism challenges and sees opportunities to work with the US globally, including in North America, where Canada hosts Khalistani individuals supporting terrorism.
On China
Jaishankar said the issue of 'South China Sea' was of great importance to all Quad partners—India, US, Australia and Japan.
'The Quad members all have a shared interest because for us it's a very important international waterway," Jaishankar said.
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'There was some discussion on the South China Sea. The issue is to find a peaceful resolution to the disputes. Ensuring that it remains calm and free of conflict is a common priority," he said.