India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a significant meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The high-level discussion took place on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties between the two democratic nations. Minister Jaishankar shared his positive experience on social media, expressing appreciation for the productive dialogue on bilateral cooperation, as well as pressing regional and global matters.
This diplomatic engagement addresses potential concerns regarding the US’s evolving relationship with Pakistan. Secretary Rubio previously clarified that the US’s growing strategic engagement with Pakistan is not intended to diminish its “deep, historic, and important” partnership with India. He reassured that any dealings with Islamabad would not come at the expense of New Delhi’s relationship with Washington.
Rubio emphasized that the US must maintain relations with a diverse range of countries. He highlighted the opportunity to enhance the strategic relationship with Pakistan, viewing it as part of a pragmatic foreign policy aimed at finding common ground and collaboration. He commended India’s diplomatic maturity, acknowledging its ability to engage with nations with which the US may not have direct ties, characterizing it as a hallmark of a sophisticated foreign policy.
The meeting occurred as India and ASEAN nations reinforced their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership at the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, participating virtually, underscored key areas for future collaboration, including counter-terrorism, maritime security, and the timely review of the ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement. He stressed the critical need for global unity in combating the pervasive challenge of terrorism.