Sri Lankan MP defends India amid US tariff blow:Harsha de Silva calls India a true friend for helping in crisis, says, ‘Don’t mock those who stand by us’
Sri Lankan MP Harsha de Silva has publicly backed India after the United States imposed steep tariffs, criticising his government for 'making fun' of New Delhi during a trade dispute. Speaking in Parliament, Harsha said that when Sri Lanka was in crisis, India had extended crucial support, and Colombo should respect India’s struggle instead of ridiculing it.
'Don’t make fun of India. When we were in trouble, only India helped us. The game is not over yet,' Harsha said, noting that India had hoped the tariff would be cut to 15%. He reiterated his stance on social media, calling India a 'true friend' whose courage 'inspires all of Asia'.
In 2022, India provided Sri Lanka with about $5 billion in aid during its economic collapse, including medical supplies, fuel, food, and infrastructure assistance.
The US recently reduced tariffs on Sri Lankan goods to 20%, down from an initial 44% announced in April 2025, following trade talks. The tariffs, effective August 7, will hit key export sectors like textiles and rubber, worth roughly $3 billion annually in trade with the US
Meanwhile, former US National Security Advisor John Bolton also criticised President Donald Trump’s decision to impose a total of 50% tariffs on India, warning it could push New Delhi closer to Russia and China. Bolton called the move a 'huge mistake' in an interview with CNN.
Trump, however, defended the tariffs, claiming they were driving stock market gains and bringing 'hundreds of billions' into the US treasury. He warned that reversing the tariffs could trigger an economic collapse similar to the Great Depression.
China also condemned Washington’s actions, calling them 'tariff abuse' and urging the US to stop politicising trade issues. The condemnation came after Trump signed an executive order imposing an extra 25% tariff on India for purchasing Russian oil.
Trump has ruled out trade negotiations with India until tariff disputes are resolved. His moves have faced bipartisan criticism in the US, with Democrats warning the measures could harm strategic and economic ties with New Delhi.
