Rubio, Jaishankar to discuss trade, energy and technology in Mumbai

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is to hold talks with Indian external affairs minister S. Jaishankar in Mumbai on Tuesday. Trade, energy, defence and technology are likely to be the key talking points as both nations seek to defuse tensions and push forward a potential trade agreement.

The visit comes at a time of growing strain in the two countries’ bilateral ties over US tariff threats, India’s ongoing imports of Russian crude oil and curbs on Indian professionals wanting to work in the United States.

The talks would also include “regional and global developments”, said The Indian Express, citing the Ministry of External Affairs.

Rubio’s visit comes after US President Donald Trump waived the potential tariffs against nations importing Russian oil, eliminating a major source of friction as Washington and New Delhi move towards a broader trade deal.

Reuters reported that the two parties are said to be on the verge of finalising the agreement and that negotiations could advance further during Rubio’s visit.

Energy security is likely to be high on the agenda as the US tries to deepen cooperation with India, while India hopes to sustain secure and competitive supplies for its surging economy.

Rubio will also travel to Jamnagar in Gujarat, where Reliance Industries has its large refinery, as part of his interactions with Indian political and business leaders.

The visit will be an opportunity for the two to bolster strategic cooperation as differences over trade and foreign policy persist.