Mumbai, 24 February 2025: “The U.S. and India complement each other, working together as strategic partners rather than rivals”, Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry said at ABP Network’s Ideas of India 2025

On U.S. tariffs and India-U.S. trade relations: “The industry is not afraid of any tariffs. India and the U.S. are democratic, interdependent nations—not competitors but complementing forces. We are force multipliers, strengthening each other. Whether it’s the American people or Indians, we are optimistic about our ties.”

He further added, “We do not tolerate any Indian becoming an illegal migrant in another country, just as we do not allow anyone to enter ours unlawfully. Strict action must be taken against these agents.”

He was speaking on the second day of ABP Network’s Ideas of India 2025 in a session titled ‘Building Viksit Bharat- Bricks, Mortar and Much More”

Regarding Rahul Gandhi, he stated, “George Soros is driving anti-India forces, and Rahul Gandhi is supporting him. Rahul Gandhi is aligned with anti-India forces and actively promotes them. He must listen to and respect the people of India.”

Speaking about PM Modi’s Vision of Viksit Bharat, he said, “Trust is key, and people trust us. For us, the nation stands above party or individual. The people have full faith in our Honorable Prime Minister. We do not make false promises to our farmers. Indian farmers have immense faith in Prime Minister Modi. He pledged ₹6,000 as a mark of respect for their hard work. No one has done as much for them as he has. People trust us, which is why the BJP secured victory in Haryana.”

On Tesla and ‘Make in India’, Piyush Goyal said, “It would be great if Tesla manufactures in India. Moving towards electric mobility is beneficial, and if it aligns with national interest, it’s even better.”

On self-reliance and trade: “We are not against imports, but we also want to leverage our strengths. Our goal is to make India Atmanirbhar.”