Jaishankar, Rubio Discuss Trade and Energy in Manila

Synopsis: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio hold talks in Manila to strengthen cooperation in trade, energy, defence, technology, and Indo-Pacific security, reinforcing the India–US strategic partnership.

India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar engaged in bilateral consultations with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the margins of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Manila, reiterating the emerging strategic partnership between India and the United States. The consultations were held on issues related to enhanced collaboration in areas such as trade, energy, defense, technology, connectivity, and regional security.

In the discussion, both the leaders went through the progress of the partnership between India and USA in the form of the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and how to build on the existing economic relationship. The aspect of trade and investment was very much in focus for the discussion where both parties highlighted their interest in building stronger economic relations.

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The aspect of energy cooperation also became an important theme. Jaishankar and Rubio shared views on ways to increase cooperation in terms of conventional and green energy, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), renewable energy, and other emerging technologies for energy transition. It was stressed that there is a critical need to ensure reliable energy supplies and sustainable energy solutions in order to address global energy needs.

Defence and security cooperation was another topic that was discussed where both nations reiterated their resolve to sustain peace, stability, and order in the Indo-Pacific region. Views were shared by the Ministers on matters concerning regional and global issues, maritime security, counter-terrorism, and strategic connectivity. There was recognition of the need to continue working together through various bilateral and multilateral forums to address security concerns.

Technology and innovation were considered essential pillars of the relationship between the two parties. The two sides talked about how they can collaborate further in areas such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, digital public infrastructure, critical and emerging technologies, and cybersecurity. They also discussed other possibilities of increasing their collaboration in research and innovation in advanced manufacturing.

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The relationship of people-to-people and education was also discussed. Both presidents recognized the key importance of the Indian diaspora in fostering mutual ties and encouraged exchange in the field of research and business. It is hoped that these moves will bring about a further improvement in the relations between the two countries.

The discussions came to an end with the two sides restating their willingness to move forward with the India-US strategic partnership through consistent engagement and cooperation. Moving forward with their collaboration on issues of trade, energy, defence, technology and regional security, the dialogue in Manila is expected to provide renewed vigor to one of the most important bilateral partnerships in the world.