Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, May 19: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated that his long-awaited visit to India is likely to take place soon, as Washington and New Delhi prepare for high-level discussions on the Quad alliance, regional stability, China and strengthening strategic cooperation.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Rubio said, “I hope good. We are about to leave (for India),” hinting that the visit could happen later this month, although official dates have not yet been announced.
The upcoming trip comes at a crucial time as geopolitical tensions continue to rise across the Indo-Pacific and the Middle East. Both India and the United States are expected to deepen coordination on maritime security, defence collaboration, emerging technologies and broader strategic interests.
Adding to the significance of the visit, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor shared a message on X expressing enthusiasm about Rubio’s arrival. “Looking forward to welcoming my good friend Secretary Rubio to India! The United States deeply values our growing partnership with India, and we are excited to build even stronger ties that will benefit both our nations and the world,” he wrote.
Apart from bilateral engagements with Indian leaders in New Delhi, Rubio is also expected to participate in the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting alongside representatives from India, Japan and Australia.
Mukesh Aghi, President and CEO of the US India Strategic and Partnership Forum, described the timing of the visit as highly important given the current international situation and the need for closer coordination among Quad members.
“It is time we resurrect the Quad, and that’s very important, especially in the current scenario of the Middle East challenges,” Aghi said during an interview with reporters.
He noted that maritime security and developments surrounding the Strait of Hormuz are likely to feature prominently in the discussions between the two countries.
“It is important to have discussions between India and the US regarding the Strait of Hormuz,” Aghi stated, adding that India’s strong naval presence in the region makes it a key strategic player.
Aghi further said India would also seek clarity on recent diplomatic developments involving China and their broader regional implications.
“It is important for Secretary Rubio to brief the Government of India on the China visit because there are implications for India,” he said. “India would like to understand how this impacts.”
According to Aghi, Rubio’s visit comes at an “appropriate time” and is expected to address several major issues affecting both nations across multiple fronts.