India and the US discuss Middle East trade, as Rubio cites progress in Iran conflict
The U.S. Secretary Of State Marco Rubio met with Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jishankar in New Delhi on Saturday. Both sides discussed the Middle East, the trade, the visas, maritime safety, and energy supplies. Washington also cited the progress made?in efforts to resolve the conflict between Iran and the United States.
Rubio stated that progress was made in the past 48 hours regarding an outline which could resolve the current situation surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. He added that "good news" might be forthcoming within the next few days.
He said that Iran would never be permitted to possess a nuclear device and attacks on commercial ships were "totally unlawful".
The talks come amid increased tensions in the Middle East, and concerns about shipping lanes and the energy supply through the Strait of Hormuz. Through this strait, a large share of the global oil shipments pass.
Jaishankar stated that India and the United States shared common challenges and interests, and that India supports safe maritime passage.
He added that the two sides discussed efforts to close a bilateral deal as soon as possible and visa issues faced by Indian workers.
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New Delhi, which is concerned about Washington's regional priorities, has been closely watching U.S. efforts in recent years to improve relations with Pakistan and China.
Rubio called India an important strategic ally and said that the two countries shared a common view on terrorism and energy. He said that India is a country with a global influence.
Rubio highlighted the breadth of the ties between New Delhi, Washington and the issues that were discussed, saying India was "animportant strategic partner of the United States. It is one of our most significant strategic partners in the entire world."
Jaishankar stated that the United States had become a reliable source of energy for India.
India and the United States expanded their cooperation in recent decades across defence, technology, and trade. New Delhi, however, continues to maintain ties with other countries, including Iran and Russia, as part of its policy?of strategic autonomy.
Rubio and Indian Prime Minister Narendra modi discussed energy and trade on Saturday. Rubio invited Modi, on behalf of U.S. President Donald Trump, to visit the White House soon.
Jaishankar stated that "We discussed developments in West Asia during our meeting at the Embassy after the secretary called on the Prime minister yesterday." (Reporting and writing by Michael Martina Saurabh Sharma, editing by Bernadettebaum and Kim Coghill).
(source: Reuters)
