S. Jaishankar Joins 1st QUAD Meet Under Trump 2.0: Key Highlights

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio hosted his first bilateral engagement with India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar in Washington after taking office. This significant meeting marked the beginning of Rubio’s diplomatic interactions under the Trump 2.0 administration, symbolizing the priority of Indo-US relations.

QUAD Foreign Ministers’ Meeting: A Milestone Event

Rubio chaired his first QUAD ministerial meeting on January 22, 2025, with representatives from India, Australia, and Japan. India's EAM S Jaishankar played a central role, becoming the first foreign minister to engage with Rubio. Jaishankar’s meeting was followed by discussions with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Japan's Takeshi Iwaya.

Following the meeting, Jaishankar tweeted:

"Attended a productive Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting today in Washington DC. Thank @secrubio for hosting us and FMs @SenatorWong & Takeshi Iwaya for their participation. Significant that the Quad FMM took place within hours of the inauguration of the Trump Administration."

The discussions focused on Indo-Pacific security, fostering collaboration among the QUAD nations, and addressing regional challenges.

Insights from the QUAD Discussions

During the QUAD meeting, leaders emphasized the importance of ensuring a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. Topics ranged from regional security to promoting democratic values and strengthening economic cooperation.

Jaishankar shared pictures from the meeting, showcasing the camaraderie among the participating nations. The visuals underscored the importance of multilateral cooperation in upholding sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the rule of law.

Jaishankar's Diplomatic Mission in Washington

Dr. S Jaishankar’s visit to Washington was timed with Donald Trump's inauguration ceremony, highlighting India's importance in US foreign policy. He met with Rubio at the US State Department's Foggy Bottom headquarters before participating in the QUAD ministerial meeting.

During a press conference, Jaishankar reflected on the Trump administration’s enthusiasm for strengthening Indo-US relations. He highlighted the matured initiatives between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Donald Trump, which paved the way for a more ambitious partnership.

Meeting with NSA Mike Waltz

The EAM concluded his diplomatic engagements by meeting White House National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. Sharing insights from the discussion, Jaishankar tweeted:
"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."

This meeting reflected the continued collaboration between India and the US on key global issues, including peace, security, and economic stability.

Joint Statement: Strengthening Indo-Pacific Relations

In a joint statement issued after the QUAD meeting, the four nations reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. The statement highlighted the importance of defending democratic values, territorial integrity, and economic opportunity.

The officials announced plans to prepare for a leaders' summit in India later this year. The upcoming summit aims to further the shared goals of peace, stability, and mutual prosperity across the region.