External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Kuala Lumpur on Monday for a high-level discussion centered on strengthening India-US bilateral relations, addressing regional developments, and exploring global challenges.
Taking to X, Jaishankar expressed satisfaction with the meeting, stating that he appreciated the meaningful conversation on enhancing ties and tackling global concerns. The dialogue came at a crucial juncture, as both nations continued discussions over a potential Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), signaling progress in one of the most significant economic dialogues between New Delhi and Washington.
The talks followed a recent statement from India’s Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, who emphasized that India would not rush into any trade agreement that could restrict its strategic or economic flexibility. Goyal clarified that India’s approach remains steady and pragmatic, focusing on long-term benefits rather than short-term concessions. He noted that trade deals go beyond tariff adjustments or market access—they represent trust, sustained collaboration, and mutual growth.
Highlighting the broader perspective, Goyal remarked that India’s trade vision is not about immediate gains like increased steel exports to the US, but about building enduring economic frameworks. He stressed that every trade deal must align with India’s larger developmental and business goals.
In support of this stance, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal recently shared that negotiations between the two countries are “moving forward positively.” He confirmed that both sides have achieved significant alignment on key issues, suggesting that an agreement may be within reach.
Agrawal also referenced the Bilateral Trade Agreement initiative proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and then-US President Donald Trump, emphasizing that the ongoing efforts reflect a deep commitment to shaping a mutually beneficial and sustainable trade partnership.
With economic ties between India and the United States valued in billions of dollars, these talks underscore both nations’ intent to fortify collaboration, not only through trade but also by fostering trust and resilience in a rapidly shifting global landscape.
