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Diplomacy – India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington to review the state of bilateral economic engagement and explore ways to strengthen strategic cooperation between the two countries. The discussions focused on trade, supply chain security, and broader economic and national security concerns shared by New Delhi and Washington.

In a public message shared on social media, Jaishankar described the meeting as constructive, noting that the conversation covered multiple areas of mutual interest. He emphasized the importance of advancing the India–US economic partnership at a time when global trade and supply networks are facing increasing pressure.

Focus on Economic Partnership and Security Concerns

Scott Bessent also reflected positively on the meeting, stating that the dialogue addressed key issues affecting both nations. According to the US Treasury Secretary, discussions included the need to secure critical supply chains and address economic security challenges that have implications for national stability.

Supply chain resilience has emerged as a central concern for both countries, particularly in sectors such as energy, manufacturing, and critical minerals. Officials from both sides acknowledged that closer coordination could help reduce vulnerabilities and support long-term economic growth.

Jaishankar’s Visit and Strategic Engagements

Jaishankar is visiting the United States from February 2 to February 4 as part of a broader diplomatic outreach aimed at deepening cooperation across multiple sectors. During his stay, he is scheduled to participate in the Critical Minerals Ministerial meeting, convened by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

The meeting is expected to bring together key stakeholders to discuss collaboration on exploration, mining, and processing of critical minerals, which are essential for clean energy technologies, defense manufacturing, and advanced electronics.

Discussions with Secretary of State Marco Rubio

In addition to his meeting with the US Treasury Secretary, Jaishankar held bilateral talks with Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the State Department. The two leaders welcomed the recent trade agreement reached between US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

According to official statements, both sides also discussed steps to formalize cooperation in the field of critical minerals. This includes potential frameworks for joint exploration and investment, reflecting a shared interest in reducing dependence on limited global suppliers.

Trade Deal and Tariff Reduction Announcement

Jaishankar’s meetings in Washington followed a significant trade announcement made by President Trump a day earlier. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that India and the United States had agreed to a new trade arrangement under which Washington would lower reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods from 25 percent to 18 percent.

The reduction is expected to ease trade tensions and provide relief to exporters, while also signaling renewed momentum in bilateral economic ties. Analysts view the move as a step toward stabilizing trade relations after a period of uncertainty.

Bessent’s Remarks on Russian Oil Imports

Despite the positive tone surrounding the meetings, differences remain on certain policy issues. Bessent has previously expressed strong criticism of India’s continued purchases of Russian oil. Last week, he also voiced disappointment with European countries following the free trade agreement between India and the European Union.

He argued that European nations were unwilling to support US efforts to impose tariffs on India over its energy imports from Russia, prioritizing trade interests instead. Bessent suggested that economic considerations had outweighed geopolitical concerns related to the conflict in Ukraine.

Balancing Cooperation and Differences

The recent engagements highlight both the depth of India–US cooperation and the complexities involved in aligning positions on global economic and security matters. While trade, supply chains, and strategic minerals remain areas of growing collaboration, energy policy and geopolitical alignments continue to present challenges.

Officials on both sides, however, have indicated a willingness to maintain open dialogue and pursue practical solutions. The meetings in Washington underscore the importance both countries place on sustaining a stable and forward-looking partnership amid shifting global dynamics.