Jaishankar, Rubio Hold Talks on Strengthening India-U.S. Partnership at ASEAN Summit

Jaishankar, Rubio Hold Talks on Strengthening India-U.S. Partnership at ASEAN Summit
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur to discuss bilateral relations and key global developments. The leaders reviewed progress in strategic cooperation, defense, trade, and emerging technologies while reaffirming their commitment to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region. Discussions also covered regional security challenges, energy diversification, and coordination on global issues such as climate change and supply chain resilience. Both sides underscored the importance of people-to-people ties and collaboration in innovation and education. The meeting came amid Washington’s efforts to deepen engagement with South and Southeast Asia while balancing its partnerships in the region. Officials described the talks as “warm and productive,” reflecting the growing convergence between India and the United States on regional and global priorities.