US Urges India to Distance from BRICS, Strengthen Trade Ties with America

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has pressed India to reduce its involvement with the BRICS economic bloc and prioritize trade relations with the United States. The appeal comes amid ongoing negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement, with Washington seeking greater access to India’s markets to address trade imbalances.

Tensions surfaced after India’s military purchases from Russia, a fellow BRICS member, drew American disapproval. Lutnick noted India’s recent shift toward US defense suppliers as a positive step in mending relations. The commerce secretary framed India as a strategic partner in countering BRICS influence, praising New Delhi’s early efforts to adjust trade policies benefiting US interests.

India had previously rejected BRICS-led de-dollarization initiatives earlier this year, signaling potential alignment with US economic priorities. Lutnick’s remarks at a Washington economic forum emphasized reciprocal market access as key to strengthened bilateral ties.