US Senator Steve Daines visited India to promote better market access for Montana’s pulse crops and strengthen ties between Washington and New Delhi. During his trip from January 17 to 19, Daines engaged with senior Indian officials, parliament members, and business leaders in New Delhi.
Meetings with External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal were part of Daines’ agenda. He emphasized the shared values and strategic partnership between the two countries, advocating for Montana’s pulse crop farmers and discussing trade, defense cooperation, and supply chain security.
Daines highlighted the importance of US-India defense ties in maintaining a stable Indo-Pacific region. Trade was a key focus, with Daines urging Indian officials to consider favorable treatment for US pulse crops in future trade agreements. Montana, a leading pulse crop producer, seeks better access to India’s market, the world’s largest consumer of crops like lentils, peas, and chickpeas.
The senator pushed for progress in bilateral trade talks and emphasized the interests of both the Trump administration and Montana residents. US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor praised the visit, emphasizing the significance of high-level engagement with India for advancing bilateral relations and cooperation in key sectors.
Efforts to secure supply chains and enhance cooperation were also discussed during the visit. Daines’ advocacy for pulse crops was reinforced by a letter to President Trump, underscoring the importance of favorable treatment in trade agreements. The visit underscores the deepening ties between the US and India across defense, technology, and trade, despite ongoing discussions on market access and tariffs.
