Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, currently in Washington, met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss formalising bilateral cooperation in exploring, mining, and processing critical minerals. The talks also covered broader aspects of the India-US strategic partnership, including trade, energy, nuclear, defence, technology, and critical minerals.
In a post on X, Jaishankar noted that both leaders agreed to hold early meetings of various mechanisms to advance their shared priorities.
A statement from Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott said that Rubio and Jaishankar welcomed the India-US trade deal reached between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The statement added that both leaders highlighted the importance of collaboration between the two democracies to unlock new economic opportunities and strengthen energy security. They also reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation through the Quad and noted that a prosperous Indo-Pacific remains central to advancing mutual interests.
This meeting came a day after Trump announced on Truth Social that the India-US trade deal would reduce the reciprocal tariff on Delhi from 25% to 18%.
Jaishankar is in the United States from February 2 to 4 and will participate in the Critical Minerals Ministerial convened by Rubio on Wednesday. During his visit, he will also meet with senior officials from the US administration, according to the Indian Foreign Ministry.
