External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar held his inaugural bilateral meeting with the newly appointed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The leaders reviewed the multifaceted India-US partnership and deliberated on key regional and global issues. Notably, this meeting occurred just hours after Rubio assumed office, setting a positive tone for their diplomatic relationship.
Sharing highlights of the meeting on X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar expressed optimism about future cooperation. He stated, “Delighted to meet @secrubio for his first bilateral meeting after assuming office as Secretary of State. Reviewed our extensive bilateral partnership, of which @secrubio has been a strong advocate. Also exchanged views on a wide range of regional and global issues. Look forward to closely working with him to advance our strategic cooperation.”
Earlier in the day, EAM Jaishankar participated in the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting hosted by Secretary Rubio in Washington, DC. The meeting included Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya. The Quad reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a free, open, and stable Indo-Pacific region.
Describing the discussions as strategic and forward-looking, Jaishankar said on X, “Significant that the Quad FMM took place within hours of the inauguration of the Trump Administration. Our wide-ranging discussions addressed different dimensions of ensuring a free, open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”
In a separate engagement, Jaishankar met US National Security Advisor (NSA) Mike Waltz. The conversation focused on strengthening bilateral ties to benefit both nations and promote global stability. Reflecting on the meeting, Jaishankar shared, “Great to meet NSA @michaelgwaltz again this afternoon. Discussed strengthening our friendship to ensure mutual benefit and enhance global stability and prosperity. Looking forward to working together on an active and outcome-oriented agenda.”
The Quad coalition, comprising India, the US, Australia, and Japan, continues to play a pivotal role in fostering an inclusive and resilient Indo-Pacific region. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of deepening the Quad’s agenda and expanding collaboration. He described the Quad as a “force for global good” and highlighted its efforts to ensure stability and prosperity in the region.
The diplomatic activities coincided with the swearing-in of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States at the US Capitol. Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath of office, while Vice President JD Vance also took the oath. Trump’s inaugural address emphasized key priorities such as combating inflation and bolstering domestic energy production.
Conclusion
EAM S. Jaishankar’s series of high-level diplomatic engagements in Washington, DC, underscores the growing strength and significance of India’s partnerships on the global stage. His inaugural bilateral meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio set a collaborative tone for advancing the India-US strategic agenda, while the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting reinforced the shared commitment to a free and stable Indo-Pacific. Discussions with US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz further highlighted the deepening ties and mutual resolve to address global challenges.
These interactions not only showcase India’s pivotal role in fostering regional and global stability but also emphasize the importance of multilateral cooperation through platforms like the Quad. The coinciding inauguration of President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance signals a new chapter in US foreign policy, one that aligns closely with India’s vision for sustainable growth, security, and prosperity. Together, these developments reflect a dynamic and forward-looking approach to global diplomacy.