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Washington DC [US], February 3:
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday at the US Department of State.
The meeting is scheduled for 3:30 pm local time. It comes amid renewed momentum in India-US relations. The momentum follows a trade deal that cut US tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent.
Jaishankar on Official US Visit
Jaishankar is on a three-day visit to the United States. During the visit, he will attend the inaugural Critical Minerals Ministerial on February 4.
Ahead of the event, the US Department of State said Rubio will bring together global partners. The focus will remain on critical mineral supply chains. These supply chains are vital for economic security and energy transition.
Trade Deal Welcomed by India
During his visit, Jaishankar welcomed the India-US trade agreement. He said the deal would create jobs and support growth.
In a post on X, he said the agreement would strengthen Make in India. He also highlighted trusted technology partnerships. According to him, a strong economy forms the base of a strategic partnership.
Leaders React to Tariff Cut
The agreement followed a phone call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump.
Under the deal, the US reduced tariffs from 25 per cent to 18 per cent. The change took effect immediately.
Prime Minister Modi welcomed the move on X. He said Made in India products would now gain better market access. He thanked President Trump for the decision.
President Trump said India would reduce tariffs and non-tariff barriers on US goods. He also stated that India would increase purchases of American products worth over USD 500 billion.
Strategic Ties Go Beyond Trade
India-US cooperation now extends beyond trade. Both sides are working on critical minerals and defence ties.
Earlier this month, officials discussed rare-earth supply chains. Defence cooperation also advanced under the 10-year Major Defence Partnership Framework.
Jaishankar’s visit highlights growing alignment between India and the US. The partnership now spans trade, security, and global stability.
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