India-US Trade Negotiations Hit Top Gear; American Delegation Extends Delhi Stay

Intensive trade negotiations between India and the US gained momentum, with an American delegation extending its stay in New Delhi until next week as both sides work to finalize an early portion of their bilateral trade agreement, people aware of the matter said on Friday.

- Rajeev Jayaswal

NEW DELHI:

The American negotiation team led by assistant US Trade Representative Brendan Lynch arrived in India on Wednesday and began face-to-face bilateral talks that stretched late into Thursday, according to one person familiar with the discussions.

"The discussions are positive and progressive, and moving in the right direction," said one person, describing Friday's conversations as "continuing in a similar manner."

Originally expected to wrap up their visit after Friday, the American team will now remain in Delhi until Tuesday (June 10), this person added, signaling the hectic nature of the negotiations as both countries race to beat a crucial July 9 deadline.