‘How does one fight China then’: Donald Trump on going tough with India on trade

US President told reporters that he was focused on doing a good job and not just ‘beating’ countries such as China

Updated on: Feb 14, 2025, 04:50:02 IST

By HT News Desk

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During a press event at the White House on Thursday President Donald Trump said he was not attempting to “beat anyone”, when asked about his plans to face-off against China amid plans to go tough on trade with India, PTI reported.

U.S. President Donald Trump meets with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., February 13, 2025. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque (REUTERS)

President Trump addressed the press alongside prime minister Narendra Modi and was asked, “How are you going to fight China if you are going to be tough with India on trade?”

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“We are in a very great shape to beat anybody we want. But we are not looking to beat anybody, we are looking to do a really good job. We have done a fantastic job for the American people," responded Donald Trump.

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He added that America would emerge much stronger than it had been before, under his leadership, while also blaming the previous Biden administration for setbacks.

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"Now, we are putting it back together. I think it is going to end up being much stronger than it was before or even much stronger than it was before,” he said.

Prime minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump met on Thursday for the first time since Trump's return to the White House on January 20 for his second term.

The two leaders spoke about their strong friendship although concerns remained over Donald Trump's reciprocal tariff plans. Trump stated that he had a wonderful relationship with PM Modi however, he has also criticised India's high tariff barriers multiple times.

This is a terrific man. We are going to make some wonderful trade deals for India and for the US," Trump said about PM Modi. He also added that the two leaders would announce a framework to strengthen the ties between the two nations today.

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HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

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