US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the significance of the India-US relationship during his meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. This meeting took place amid ongoing trade tensions, including new tariffs on Indian goods and increased H-1B visa fees imposed by the Trump administration.

Rubio described India as a relationship of "critical importance" to the United States. He expressed gratitude for India's engagement in various sectors such as trade, defense, energy, pharmaceuticals, and critical minerals. Both leaders agreed to continue their collaboration to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific region, particularly through the Quad alliance.

Jaishankar noted that their discussions covered a wide range of bilateral and international issues. He emphasized the need for sustained engagement to advance priority areas. In a post on social media, he stated, "Good to meet @SecRubio this morning in New York. Our conversation covered a range of bilateral and international issues of current concern. Agreed on the importance of sustained engagement to progress on priority areas. We will remain in touch."

Rubio also shared on social media that they discussed key aspects of their bilateral relationship, including trade, energy, pharmaceuticals, and critical minerals, aiming to foster prosperity for both nations.

This meeting was the first between the two since the Trump administration imposed additional tariffs on Indian imports, particularly affecting purchases of Russian oil. The recent changes to the H-1B visa program have raised concerns among Indian technology companies, as the new rules will require applicants to pay an annual fee of $100,000 starting in 2025.

Despite these challenges, both sides expressed a commitment to advancing trade discussions. Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is currently leading a delegation to the US to further these talks, having met with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in New York.