MEA | India Hits Back at Trump Tariff Threat, Signs Strategic Pacts with Philippines

India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) conducted a press briefing during Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s state visit, announcing the upgrade of India-Philippines relations to a strategic partnership. The briefing highlighted new agreements in defence, trade, and maritime cooperation. The MEA also addressed geopolitical issues, including U.S. President Donald Trump's threat to impose tariffs on Indian exports due to Russian oil imports, which India rejected as baseless, emphasizing its right to energy security. The MEA reaffirmed that trade relations with the U.S. remain unaffected and stressed India's commitment to a balanced foreign policy. Additionally, the briefing included discussions on U.S.-Pakistan relations, rising oil prices, and regional security, underscoring India's focus on strategic autonomy.