Former U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton said President Donald Trump's tariff policy toward India was a "mistake" [2].
Bolton's assessment comes as the U.S. navigates complex diplomatic ties with India and Pakistan while attempting to counter the growing influence of China in South Asia.
In an interview with NDTV, Bolton said the U.S.-Pakistan relationship is evolving [1]. He discussed the significance of the G7 meeting between President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting the importance of the engagement despite the friction caused by trade disputes [2].
Bolton said the strategic challenge from China should remain a primary focus for U.S. policymakers. He suggested that trade tensions with India could undermine the broader goal of forming a cohesive front against Chinese expansion in the region [2].
Regarding Pakistan, Bolton evaluated the country's strategic position amid the tensions between the U.S., India, and China [1]. His analysis touched upon the role of the Pakistani military leadership, specifically Army Chief Asim Munir, in the context of regional stability [1].
Bolton said the current approach to tariffs may hinder the strategic partnership between Washington and New Delhi. He said economic friction complicates the geopolitical alignment necessary to address security threats in South Asia [2].
“"mistake"”
Bolton's critique highlights a fundamental tension in U.S. foreign policy: the conflict between 'America First' economic protectionism and the strategic necessity of building strong alliances in Asia. By labeling the tariffs a mistake, Bolton suggests that short-term trade gains may be costing the U.S. long-term geopolitical leverage against China, particularly in its relationship with India.
