Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Rubio Hold Key Phone Discussion
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in a significant phone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday, January 13. The two leaders discussed multiple areas of cooperation between India and the United States.
Focus on Trade and Strategic Sectors
Their discussion covered several critical sectors. They talked about trade relations, critical minerals, nuclear energy cooperation, and defence matters. Both sides agreed to maintain regular contact on these and other important issues.
Jaishankar shared details about the call on social media. He wrote, "Just concluded a good conversation with @SecRubio. Discussed trade, critical minerals, nuclear cooperation, defence and energy. Agreed to remain in touch on these and other issues."
Resumption of Bilateral Trade Talks
This conversation followed recent indications of renewed engagement on trade issues. Newly-appointed US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, highlighted ongoing discussions just a day earlier.
Gor addressed the topic during an event at the US embassy on Monday. He stated, "Both sides continue to actively engage. In fact, the next call on trade will occur tomorrow."
India-US trade relations faced challenges in recent years. Former President Donald Trump imposed substantial tariffs on Indian goods. These included a 25 percent levy linked to Russian oil purchases.
Multiple rounds of negotiations took place last year to finalize a bilateral trade deal. However, the two countries could not reach a resolution. US demands for greater access to India's farm and dairy sectors presented significant hurdles.
Emphasis on Strategic Partnership
Ambassador Gor emphasized the importance of India in US foreign policy. He described India as an essential partner for the United States.
Gor outlined his ambitious agenda as ambassador. He said, "No partner is more essential than India. In the months and years ahead, it is my goal as ambassador to pursue a very ambitious agenda. We will do this as true strategic partners, each bringing strength, respect and leadership to the table."
Minimal Impact Expected from US Tariffs on Iran
The timing of the Jaishankar-Rubio call coincided with another US tariff announcement. Trump declared a 25 percent tariff on countries conducting business with Iran.
Indian government sources indicated this measure would have minimal impact on India. According to PTI reports, bilateral trade between India and Iran remains under USD 2 billion.
Officials noted that Iran does not rank among India's top 50 global trading partners. This limited economic relationship suggests the new tariffs will not significantly affect Indian interests.
The conversation between Jaishankar and Rubio demonstrates continued diplomatic engagement between the two nations. Both countries appear committed to addressing trade issues and strengthening their strategic partnership across multiple sectors.
