Jaishankar holds 'useful discussion' with Scott Bessent following India-US trade deal announcement

Jaishankar, Bessent discuss India-US partnership

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday held a “useful discussion” with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington, following the announcement of a major trade deal between India and the United States aimed at strengthening bilateral economic ties.

“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 wrote on X after the meeting.

Pleased to meet US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington DC today. @SecScottBessentHad a useful discussion on advancement of India - US economic partnership and strategic cooperation.🇮🇳 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/tfNMpTT8wH

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 3, 2026

The talks took place during Jaishankar’s official visit to the US from 2–4 February, which includes a series of high-level engagements with the new US administration. Later on Tuesday, he is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the State Department. The meeting precedes the inaugural Critical Minerals Ministerial, chaired by Rubio on Wednesday, where India and the US are expected to discuss cooperation in strategic supply chains and emerging technologies.

During the visit, Jaishankar will also hold discussions with other senior members of the US administration, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

The diplomatic engagements follow the announcement of a trade deal by US President Donald Trump, under which Washington will reduce reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods from 25 per cent to 18 per cent.

“Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18 per cent. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X, welcoming the move as a significant step forward for bilateral economic cooperation.