Pakistan Delegation Visits US for Tariff Talks as Trump Nears India Trade Deal

US President Donald Trump announced that representatives from Pakistan are scheduled to visit the United States next week to engage in trade talks, aiming to resolve a tariff dispute that could impose up to 29% tariffs on Pakistani exports due to a $3 billion trade surplus. Pakistan has proposed a zero-tariff bilateral agreement on selected goods to expand trade, and both sides are optimistic about reaching a successful conclusion soon. Trump also stated that the US is very close to finalizing a trade deal with India, highlighting ongoing negotiations, including potential Indian contracts worth over $50 billion for American firms. However, Trump emphasized that he would not pursue trade agreements with either Pakistan or India if the two countries were to engage in military conflict, reflecting heightened tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors following recent clashes. These developments occur amid efforts by both Pakistan and India to improve trade relations with the US while navigating geopolitical challenges. Pakistan's delegation includes government officials, business leaders, and exporters, signaling a comprehensive approach to enhancing bilateral economic ties.