'Lack of knowledge': Goyal expresses 'sympathy' for Rahul in US
What's the story
Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday expressed his "sympathy" for Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his remarks on the manufacturing sector.
Speaking from Washington DC, Goyal said, "I can only sympathize with the lack of knowledge about the manufacturing story, as I don't know which job losses he is referring to."
He said he avoids discussing domestic politics on foreign soil but added, "Rahul Gandhi is entitled to belittle his own country, and that is his choice."
National vision
'Striving to improve lives of people in India...'
Goyal highlighted that India is united in its mission to improve the prosperity of its people, with a vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
He said, "We are collectively striving to improve the lives of the people of India in the coming years."
Goyal expressed concern, adding, "Sadly, some individuals, possibly responsible for the growing influence of China on the Indian industry, continue to praise or defend China."
Economic concerns
Goyal criticizes India's trade deficit with China
The minister noted that the global community increasingly views China as a non-transparent economy—notorious for dumping goods.
He mentioned that even the United States has raised concerns about the security risks posed by Chinese products, resulting in restrictions.
Additionally, Goyal highlighted India's trade deficit with China—which grew from around $1.8 billion in 2004 to $43 billion over the following decade.
He called it a "matter of shame" that Chinese goods flooded Indian markets, negatively impacting domestic manufacturing and deterring investors.
Trade agreements
Goyal discusses India's economic partnerships and future plans
He also addressed India's coerced participation in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), noting that it would have resulted in a free trade agreement with China.
Additionally, Goyal highlighted the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India and the United States on critical minerals, which aims to maintain open supply chains and enhance collaboration between India's Ministry of Mines and the US government.
This partnership is intended to strengthen cooperation in the critical minerals sector.