US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday. The visit aimed at strengthening relations weakened by US tariffs and ties with India’s rivals, Pakistan and China.
Rubio emphasized the potential for diversifying India’s energy supply through US energy products. He also stressed that the United States will not let Iran control the global energy market.
US presidents have sought to counterbalance Russian and Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific region. However, Trump’s imposition of high tariffs on India last year dealt a blow to these efforts.
The interim agreement reduced some tariffs but finalizing a comprehensive trade deal has been slow. The US has grown closer to Pakistan, which is involved in efforts to resolve the Iran conflict.
Modi reiterated India’s support for peace and called for dialogue and diplomacy in resolving conflicts during the meeting. Rubio also invited Modi to visit the White House soon on behalf of President Trump.
India’s concerns about its relationship with the US were heightened by Trump’s visit to Beijing this month, according to former State Department expert Basant Sanghera. Despite these challenges, ties have stabilized as both sides work on areas of convergence.
The Biden administration has prioritized India as a strategic partner and welcomed Modi during a 2023 state visit. However, trade tensions and other distractions may hinder further progress.
US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, known for his expertise in Indian affairs, arrived in January and aims to reset ties. In February, the US and India reached an interim agreement on trade but talks have slowed due to legal challenges.
India has been lobbying for a Trump visit tied to a Quad summit, which includes the US, India, Japan, and Australia. However, these plans may not materialize amid ongoing tensions and other priorities.
Rubio’s efforts to improve relations are unlikely to reverse the downward trend in engagement, according to Richard Rossow of the Center for Strategic and International Studies. The lack of a finalized trade agreement remains a significant obstacle.