NewKerala.com

US-India Talks Focus on Supply Chains, Economic Security & Strategic Ties

United States Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met with India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in Washington D.C., focusing on the importance of securing supply chains and mutual economic security issues. Jaishankar also held wide-ranging talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, covering bilateral cooperation, regional issues, and facets of the strategic partnership including trade, defense, and technology. The discussions follow recent trade announcements between the two nations, which were welcomed by both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former President Donald Trump. The leaders agreed to hold early meetings of various bilateral mechanisms to advance shared interests and strengthen the foundation of the strategic partnership.

Key Points: US Treasury Secy, EAM Jaishankar Hold Talks on Supply Chains

  • Securing critical supply chains
  • Advancing economic & strategic partnership
  • Discussing trade, defense, and tech cooperation
  • Early meetings of bilateral mechanisms agreed
2 min read

US Treasury Secy, EAM Jaishankar hold talks on securing supply chains, mutual interests

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent meets India's EAM Jaishankar to discuss securing supply chains, economic security, and advancing strategic partnership.

"When two large economies and the world's largest democracies work together, it benefits our people - Narendra Modi"

Washington DC, February 4

United States Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent on Wednesday held talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and addressed the importance of securing supply chains.

Bessent and Jaishankar also discussed economic security issues of mutual interest.

In a post on X, he said, "Enjoyed today's meeting with Minister S Jaishankar of India. During our talks, we addressed the importance of securing supply chains, as well as other national and economic security issues of mutual interest."

Speaking about the meeting, Jaishankar said, "Pleased to meet US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington DC today. Had a useful discussion on advancement of India - US economic partnership and strategic cooperation."

Jaishankar also held talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and discussed facets of India-US Strategic Partnership.

In a post on X, he said, "Delighted to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio this afternoon. A wide ranging conversation that covered our bilateral cooperation agenda, regional and global issues. Facets of India - US Strategic Partnership discussed included trade, energy, nuclear, defence, critical minerals and technology. Agreed on the early meetings of various mechanisms to advance our shared interests."

Earlier on Tuesday, Jaishankar welcomed the US and India deal.

In a post on X, he said, "Welcome the announcements on bilateral trade following the conversation between PM Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump. This will create more jobs, spur growth and promote innovation in both economies. It will strengthen 'Make in India' endeavors and encourage trusted technology ties. The opportunities in our economic engagement are truly vast and we are confident of realizing them. A robust economic relationship is the strongest foundation for our strategic partnership."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had welcomed the agreement on February 2.

In a post on X, he said, "Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18%. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement. When two large economies and the world's largest democracies work together, it benefits our people and unlocks immense opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation. President Trump's leadership is vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity. India fully supports his efforts for peace. I look forward to working closely with him to take our partnership to unprecedented heights."

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good to see our ministers actively engaging. Hope these talks on critical minerals and technology translate into real jobs and investment on the ground, not just statements. The focus should be on skill development for our youth.
R
Rohit P
While the strategic partnership is important, I hope we are not becoming too dependent on the US. We must strengthen our own domestic capabilities and also diversify partnerships in Europe and with other Global South countries. Self-reliance is key.
S
Sarah B
As someone working in the tech sector, the mention of "trusted technology ties" is the most exciting part. If this leads to more semiconductor and AI collaboration, it could be a game-changer for India's tech ecosystem.
V
Vikram M
The reduced tariff of 18% is a big win! This should help our textiles, pharmaceuticals, and engineering goods compete better in the US market. Let's hope the benefits reach the MSMEs and small exporters, not just the big corporates.
M
Michael C
Strong India-US relations are good for global stability. The focus on economic security and supply chains makes perfect sense in today's volatile world. Hope the "early meetings of various mechanisms" they agreed on happen quickly.
K
Kavya N
All this is good, but what about the visa issues for Indian professionals

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50