Jaishankar-Rubio Call Boosts India-US Ties: Trade Deal, Critical Minerals on Agenda

• External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a significant phone call, reactivating diplomatic lines between Delhi and Washington.
• The discussion covered key areas including trade deals, nuclear energy, critical minerals, and Indo-Pacific security, signaling a new phase in India-US relations.
• This call is crucial as trade deal talks had been stalled due to disagreements on import duties, market access, and supply chains.
• US Ambassador Sergio Gor confirmed the positive discussion, mentioning next steps for bilateral trade negotiations and a possible ministerial meeting.
• India's involvement in high-tech initiatives like Pax Silica and praise for the SHANTI Bill further underscore the strengthening partnership.

Why It Matters: A high-level phone call between Jaishankar and Rubio signals renewed momentum for India-US strategic and trade relations.