Beyond the Bargain: Piyush Goyal Reveals How Tough Trade Talks Forge Unexpected Bonds, 'Like Family'

In the high-stakes world of international trade, where national interests clash and every clause is meticulously debated, one might imagine a landscape devoid of personal warmth. Yet, Union Minister Piyush Goyal offers a refreshingly human perspective, revealing that these very tough negotiations have, quite unexpectedly, brought him incredibly close to his counterparts – so much so, he feels some have become 'like family'.

Speaking at an event in Bengaluru, Goyal, who oversees Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and Textiles, shared this fascinating insight. It's a sentiment that flies in the face of the often-impersonal image of diplomacy. He explained that the intense, sometimes grueling process of negotiating Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) isn't just about hard-nosed bargaining; it's an experience that fosters profound human connections.

"Believe it or not," Goyal mused, "tough trade negotiations bring you very close to your counterparts. Sometimes it leads to long-term relationships of friendship." He then painted a vivid picture of this unique camaraderie, recalling his experiences with key figures from various nations. He spoke of the deep personal bond forged with Liz Truss, who was then the UK's Secretary of State for International Trade, and similarly with Dan Tehan, Australia's former Trade Minister. Even with Mary Ng, Canada's Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, the connection ran deeper than mere professional courtesy.

It's an interesting paradox, isn't it? The very act of rigorously defending one's national position, pushing for the best possible deal, seems to strip away pretenses and reveal the people behind the titles. This mutual respect, born out of shared challenges and late-night deliberations, appears to transcend the negotiation table. It's not just about figures and clauses; it's about mutual understanding, shared humor, and perhaps even a shared sense of exhaustion and achievement.

Goyal emphasized that these strong personal relationships are far from a mere perk of the job; they are, in fact, critical. A solid rapport can undoubtedly smooth over rough patches in future discussions, foster trust, and ultimately serve the long-term strategic interests of all involved countries. It’s a powerful reminder that even in the most formal of settings, the human element remains paramount, capable of turning adversaries into allies, and colleagues into something akin to family.