Consulate attack, trade, bilateral ties: Here’s what EAM Jaishankar discussed with US Secretary of State Rubio

The discussions also spanned various areas of bilateral cooperation, including defence, security, skills, education, and technology.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington on Wednesday, marking Rubio's first bilateral engagement since assuming office under the Trump 2.0 administration. The discussions, held on the sidelines of the Quad meeting, underscored the shared commitment to strengthening the US-India partnership and addressing regional and global challenges.

Consulate Attack in San Francisco: Dr. Jaishankar Calls for Accountability

During the meeting, Jaishankar addressed the issue of the attack on India's consulate in San Francisco, calling it a "very serious matter" and emphasised the need for accountability. "We expect those responsible to be held accountable," he said, underscoring India's concern over the safety of its diplomatic missions abroad.

#WATCH | Washington DC | EAM Dr S Jaishankar says, "...The attack on our consulate in San Francisco is a very serious matter and it is something for which we expect accountability. We would like to see that people who did it are held responsible." pic.twitter.com/qmsV3b7Nu4

ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2025

Trade with Pakistan: No Talks from India's Side

On the issue of trade with Pakistan, Jaishankar clarified that India did not halt trade but that Pakistan made the decision in 2019 to stop trading with India. "Our concern from the beginning was that we should get Most Favored Nation (MFN) status," he said. "We used to give this status to Pakistan, but they did not reciprocate." Jaishankar also pointed out that despite no ongoing trade talks, a significant number of trucks continue to come from Pakistan, raising security concerns.

Focus on Broader Cooperation in Defence, Technology, and Migration

The discussions also spanned various areas of bilateral cooperation, including defence, security, skills, education, and technology. Jaishankar noted the need for both nations to not only explore new avenues of collaboration but also improve the execution of existing initiatives. "With both countries having leaders focused on governance effectiveness, that mindset permeates into the relationship," he remarked.

On the issue of irregular migration, Jaishankar highlighted that the discussions touched on a range of concerns, including the mobility of people between the two countries.