External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will represent India at the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States on January 20. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Sunday that Jaishankar will also hold meetings with representatives from the incoming Trump administration during his visit to the United States.

Jaishankar’s Visit Ahead of Trump’s Second Term

Jaishankar’s visit to the US comes after Trump’s victory over Vice President Kamala Harris in the November presidential elections. Jaishankar previously expressed optimism about India’s relations with the incoming administration, emphasizing that India is in a favorable position to strengthen bilateral ties with the United States. Trump, who previously served as the 45th President from 2017 to 2021, is set to begin his second term in office.

Meetings and Diplomacy During the Visit

“On the invitation of the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will represent the Government of India at the swearing-In ceremony of President-Elect Donald J Trump as the 47th President of the United States of America,” it said.

“During the visit, the external affairs minister will also have meetings with representatives of the incoming administration, as also some other dignitaries visiting the US on that occasion,” the MEA said in a statement.

Concerns Over Trump’s Policy Directions

Trump’s new administration is expected to shape its approach on a number of critical global issues, including tariffs, climate change, and foreign policy priorities. There are widespread concerns among various nations regarding the administration’s stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and developments in West Asia, areas where Trump’s policies are under intense scrutiny.

As Trump prepares to begin his second term, diplomatic relations between India and the United States will continue to be closely watched, with Jaishankar’s visit marking an important moment in shaping the future of bilateral ties.