External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, speaking at a press briefing in Washington D.C. on Wednesday, underscored the significance of bolstering bilateral relations and said the Trump administration is taking a proactive approach to fostering bilateral ties with India. “It was very clear that the Trump administration was keen to have India present at the inaugural itself. They’re clearly prioritising the bilateral relationship,” he stated.
Jaishankar also reaffirmed India’s stance against irregular migration. He stated, “If there are any of our citizens who are not here legally, if we are sure that they are our citizens, we are always open to their legitimate return to India.”
Jaishankar also met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington on Wednesday, marking Rubio’s first bilateral engagement under the Trump 2.0 administration. The meeting, held alongside the Quad summit, reaffirmed a mutual commitment to strengthening the US-India partnership and tackling global and regional challenges.
He emphasised the continuity in the partnership built during the first Trump administration, crediting President Trump and Prime Minister Modi’s foundational initiatives. These efforts, Jaishankar said, have shaped a relationship that continues to evolve and deepen.
A key topic of discussion was the Quad alliance, with both leaders expressing a desire to intensify its activities. “There’s a very strong sense that the current administration will reciprocate our desire to take the Quad further,” Jaishankar said.