US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has clarified that the United States is actively working to bolster its strategic partnership with Pakistan. During a press briefing, Rubio emphasized that this expansion of ties with Pakistan will not come at the expense of the United States’ “deep, historic, and important” relationship with India. He described this approach as part of a mature and pragmatic foreign policy, akin to how other nations maintain relationships that may not align with US interests. “I don’t think anything we’re doing with Pakistan comes at the expense of our relationship or friendship with India, which is deep, historic, and important,” Rubio stated. He further noted that the US is aware of challenges concerning India but seeks opportunities for partnership. The US has a long history of collaboration with Pakistan, particularly in counterterrorism, and aims to broaden this engagement. This statement arrives amidst evolving diplomatic dynamics between Washington and Islamabad, particularly following recent regional tensions. Rubio also touched upon trade issues, including India’s energy imports, acknowledging that while the US has urged India to reduce its reliance on Russian oil, he respects India’s need to diversify its energy sources. He expressed optimism about increasing US energy sales to India. The Secretary is scheduled to meet with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar soon.
