New Delhi witnessed a pivotal moment in India-US relations as External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held talks with US Senator Steve Daines on Sunday. The meeting, captured in photos shared by Jaishankar on X, signals accelerating momentum toward a potential trade agreement between the two nations.
Jaishankar highlighted discussions on bilateral ties and their strategic dimensions. ‘Met Senator Steve Daines in Delhi this morning. Great conversation on our mutual relations and their strategic significance,’ he posted alongside the images. This comes amid heightened expectations for positive developments in trade negotiations.
The rendezvous underscores the deepening partnership, especially after US Ambassador Eric Garcetti emphasized India’s role as America’s most critical ally. Garcetti noted ongoing active engagements, with the next round of trade talks scheduled for Tuesday. ‘India is the world’s largest country, so getting to the finish line isn’t easy, but we’re determined,’ he stated, stressing trade’s importance alongside cooperation in security, counter-terrorism, energy, technology, education, and health.
Recent phone conversations between Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio further covered critical minerals, nuclear energy, and defense collaboration. Garcetti praised the genuine friendship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump, affirming that true partners resolve differences while advancing shared interests at the highest levels.
As negotiations intensify, this meeting reinforces optimism for a robust trade deal that could reshape economic ties, bolster strategic alignment, and open new avenues for mutual prosperity in an increasingly interconnected world.