Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo addressed the issue of tariffs under Donald Trump's administration at the India Today Conclave 2025, an annual event that brings together global leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss pressing international issues. Pompeo emphasized that Trump, who calls himself "Tariff Man," views tariffs as a crucial tool to balance trade deficits and push for fair trade practices. "He would say, 'Let's both get rid of our tariffs and be great commercial partners together,' but if not, he will impose tariffs on your products, goods, and even services," Pompeo stated. Pompeo served as Secretary of State from 2018 to 2021 and Director of the CIA (2017-2018). He dismissed concerns that Trump’s policies favor corporate interests, arguing that recent tariffs have caused major financial losses for billionaires. "If they’re trying to make money off this, it’s an epic fail," he said, referring to Elon Musk’s losses due to recent trade restrictions. He also noted that India's commerce minister is currently in the US for discussions with American trade officials, reinforcing the importance of ongoing negotiations. Beyond tariffs, Pompeo highlighted opportunities for US-India collaboration in technology and innovation. He stressed the need to reduce trade barriers in cutting-edge sectors and facilitate academic and business exchanges between the two countries. "The real place our two nations ought to be determined to succeed is in new innovative spaces where the West, India, Japan, South Korea, and Europe must compete with China," he stated. Pompeo expressed optimism that a second Trump presidency would continue strengthening economic ties between Washington and New Delhi. [ Video Courtesy : X/@IndiaToday ]