US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has offered the clearest indication yet that President Donald Trump is likely to visit India early next year. This development follows recent discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France.
Rubio, in an interview, confirmed that the administration is actively working towards the potential visit. He noted President Trump's keen interest in traveling to India after receiving an invitation from Prime Minister Modi, emphasizing the strong partnership between the two nations.
Progress on Bilateral Trade Agreement
Beyond the presidential visit, Secretary Rubio also highlighted significant advancements in discussions regarding a bilateral trade agreement between India and the United States. He expressed optimism that the deal is nearing finalization.
"We're on the last inches of getting it done and it's very positive," Rubio stated, referring to the trade agreement. He also mentioned plans for another Quad meeting soon and his own return to India before the year's end to help set up the presidential visit.
US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, further corroborated these reports. He indicated that President Trump had recently inquired about travel plans to India during a meeting in the Oval Office. Ambassador Gor suggested that some announcements related to the trade deal could be made in the coming weeks.
G7 Meeting Sets the Stage
The groundwork for these developments was laid during the G7 Summit. Ambassador Gor described the meeting between Modi and Trump as "fantastic" and "very warm," lasting over an hour. Their discussions covered a range of issues, including trade and defense, which Gor characterized as highly productive.
The anticipated visit and the nearing trade agreement underscore the deepening diplomatic and economic ties between India and the United States, reflecting a strategic partnership that both nations are keen to strengthen.