Strengthening India-US Relations: PM Modi Meets Secretary of State Marco Rubio
Key Discussions on Bilateral Ties
PM Modi with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a meeting, in New Delhi. (Photo:PTI)
New Delhi, May 23: Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday, focusing on various dimensions of the India-US partnership, particularly in defence, trade, energy, and technology.
In a social media update, Prime Minister Modi expressed his pleasure in welcoming Secretary Rubio, highlighting their conversation about the ongoing advancements in the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, as well as regional and global peace and security matters.
He emphasized that both nations would persist in their collaborative efforts for the greater good of the world.
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) reported that Secretary Rubio provided insights into the ongoing progress in bilateral cooperation across numerous sectors, including defence, strategic technologies, trade and investment, energy security, connectivity, education, and cultural exchanges.
Additionally, Secretary Rubio shared the US viewpoint on various regional and global challenges, including the situation in West Asia.
Prime Minister Modi reiterated India's unwavering support for peace initiatives and emphasized the importance of resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy, as stated by the PMO.
He also asked Secretary Rubio to extend his warm regards to President Trump, expressing eagerness for ongoing communication between them.
US Ambassador Sergio Gor mentioned that Rubio conveyed an invitation from President Trump for Prime Minister Modi to visit the United States soon.
Rubio's visit marks his first official trip to India, aimed at recalibrating the bilateral relationship, which has faced challenges since mid-last year.
In a social media post, Rubio expressed his excitement upon arriving in India, stating, "Landed in India. Looking forward to a great visit."
On Sunday, Rubio is expected to engage in bilateral discussions with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and participate in the US Embassy’s Independence Day celebrations.
His itinerary includes travel to Agra and Jaipur on Monday, returning to Delhi on Tuesday morning for the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
This visit follows a three-day trip to Washington DC by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, aimed at stabilizing ties after a period of uncertainty.
Relations between the two nations had soured after the US imposed tariffs on India and President Trump made contentious remarks regarding his involvement in de-escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan last May.
Strains in the relationship were also exacerbated by Washington's new immigration policies and increased fees for H-1B visas.
Nonetheless, both countries have been working diligently in recent months to mend their relationship, with hopes of finalizing a mutually advantageous trade agreement soon.