Former US President Donald Trump has questioned US financial aid for elections in India. He criticized India, stating that the US provides India with unnecessary economic assistance for elections.
USAID: Donald Trump again criticized India, claiming the US provides excessive financial aid for elections. He made this statement during his closing speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). Trump also alleged that India takes advantage of the US by imposing high tariffs on American trade.
Trump's Accusation: 'India Doesn't Need Election Funding'
During his speech, Donald Trump stated, "Eighteen million dollars are being given to help India with its elections. Why? India has plenty of money; they don't need this money." He emphasized that the US should utilize its resources effectively and avoid providing financial assistance to other countries without a justifiable reason.
Questioning Tariffs in India
Trump also stated that India is among the countries imposing the highest tariffs on American products. He said, "India takes great advantage of us. When we try to sell something, they impose tariffs of up to 200 percent, and then we give them financial aid for their elections. This is completely wrong."
Response from External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar
Amidst the controversy surrounding the US's financial aid for elections in India, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that it is a serious matter and the government is investigating. Jaishankar said, "I think some information has been put out by people in the Trump administration, and obviously this is concerning. The government is looking into the entire matter, and the facts related to this will soon emerge."
Why Questions Arose Regarding USAID Funding?
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) provided $21 million in financial assistance to increase voter turnout in India. Trump questioned this aid, calling it a misuse of US resources. He also suggested that there might be ulterior motives behind providing such aid, necessitating an investigation.
