<h1>Union minister says economy strong amid US reciprocal tariffs and new partner investment, vows citizen protections</h1> A union minister asserted that the national economy remains strong despite recent international trade tensions, noting government steps to protect citizens' welfare and pointing to a historically favorable trade balance with the United States. The United States issued additional reciprocal tariffs on certain imports, raising duties to 50% for affected products and applying increased levies to goods entered for consumption on or after August 27, 2025, per a Department of Homeland Security draft order. Separately, a major partner announced a long-term investment package and multiple strategic agreements aimed at deepening economic and security cooperation and supply-chain resilience.