The Trump administration, underlining its strategic focus on India, commenced its international diplomatic engagements with key meetings involving India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Newly appointed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held his first bilateral meeting with Dr. Jaishankar at the US State Department headquarters. This significant move departed from the traditional practice of prioritizing neighbors Canada and Mexico or NATO allies for such meetings.

During their hour-long discussion, Secretary Rubio and Dr. Jaishankar reviewed the entire spectrum of the India-US strategic partnership. Key topics included regional security, economic collaboration, and global challenges. The meeting, attended by India’s Ambassador to the US, Vinay Kwatra, showcased the shared commitment to enhancing bilateral ties. Both leaders emphasized mutual cooperation, with Dr. Jaishankar lauding Rubio’s consistent advocacy for strengthening the relationship.

The meetings also marked the maiden Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting of the Trump administration, featuring representatives from the US, India, Japan, and Australia. The group reaffirmed their dedication to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region and deepening their collaboration. Dr. Jaishankar later met with newly appointed US National Security Adviser Mike Walz at the White House to discuss strategies for global stability and mutual prosperity. These high-profile engagements highlight the prioritization of India in the Trump administration’s foreign policy agenda.