Walter Russell Mead (“Saffron India Is an Opportunity and Danger,” Global View, Aug. 11) is correct: Foreign policy objectives link Washington to New Delhi, and this relationship ought to be cemented with economic ties. A predictable, low-tariff regime would reorient supply chains away from an inimical China toward a democratic India, while providing cheap imports that enhance the purchasing power of U.S. consumers.

The biggest sticking point in any trade negotiation would be agricultural liberalization. Although only about 15% of India’s economy, agriculture accounts for around half its employment, making it a politically cosseted constituency. If compromises on foodstuffs must be countenanced, New Delhi could sweeten the deal by toughening intellectual-property laws and relaxing rules on U.S. direct investment. India could also ease impediments to U.S. tech companies by waiving its digital-services tax and data-localization requirements.

A trade pact that ushers in the free flow of commerce and capital would be a win-win for the world’s two largest democracies.

Nathan Punwani

Los Angeles