New Delhi: As New Delhi and Washington unveiled an interim trade framework on Saturday, attention quickly shifted to a map released by the US Trade Representative’s office that depicted India’s full territorial claims — including Jammu & Kashmir, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Aksai Chin — as part of India.
In materials shared alongside details of the trade agreement, a map sourced from the US trade office included the entirety of Jammu and Kashmir within India’s borders, also showing regions administered by Pakistan and claimed by China as part of India, reported India Today.
While India’s position that Kashmir is an integral part of the country has long been official policy, the inclusion of these territories in a US released map marks a notable shift in how Washington visually represents the region in government documentation tied to the trade negotiations.
The interim trade framework announced by both countries aims to reset stalled negotiations on a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) and reduce longstanding tariff barriers.
The United States has agreed to cut reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods to 18% from previously high levels. India will reduce or eliminate duties on a wide range of US industrial and agricultural products.
Both nations reiterated their commitment to expanding market access and regulatory cooperation, with negotiations continuing toward a final interim pact expected by mid-March. Commerce officials said the agreement is aimed at bolstering bilateral economic ties while preserving key Indian interests.
Analysts say the map’s inclusion in official US material may be interpreted as a symbolic diplomatic gesture toward India, coming at a time when both countries are actively deepening economic and strategic engagement.
India has consistently protested previous incorrect depictions of its borders in foreign publications and government documents, particularly regarding Jammu and Kashmir.
