Diplomatic Ties Strengthened: Jaishankar Meets Rubio Before Critical Minerals Panel

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington. The meeting preceded a significant ministerial on critical minerals. Additionally, the visit coincided with an announcement by Trump about a new trade deal between India and the US, reducing tariffs between the two nations.

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's visit to the United States kicked off with a significant meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington. The exchange was held at the Department of State on Tuesday, setting the stage for the inaugural ministerial on critical minerals, spearheaded by Rubio.

Jaishankar's agenda includes participation in the Critical Minerals Ministerial on Wednesday and meetings with senior US administrative officials, reflecting the deepening ties between the two nations.

This diplomatic dialogue gains additional significance in light of former President Trump's announcement on Truth Social that India and the US have reached a trade agreement. This deal will see Washington reduce the reciprocal tariff on Delhi from 25 to 18 percent, marking a notable development in US-India trade relations.

(With inputs from agencies.)