EAM Jaishankar-Rubio Talks Expand Beyond Trade
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held high-level talks with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington this week, focusing on strategic cooperation between India and the United States as broader bilateral ties deepen.
Broader Strategic Agenda
In discussions, both sides covered a wide range of issues including trade, critical minerals, defence, nuclear cooperation and energy, reflecting expanding cooperation beyond commercial matters. Officials said formalising collaboration on critical minerals exploration, mining and processing is a priority, as these resources are crucial for technologies and clean energy goals.
The meeting followed the recent finalisation of a major India-U.S. trade deal under which the U.S. agreed to lower reciprocal tariffs to around 18 per cent, a step expected to boost bilateral economic engagement.
Strengthening Multilateral Links
Jaishankar and Rubio also emphasised the importance of regional cooperation, including coordination through forums like the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) to support a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Both sides reaffirmed their intent to advance shared strategic interests in the face of global challenges.
