US Senator Marco Rubio affirmed that Washington's strengthening relationship with Pakistan would not come at the expense of its strategic partnership with India. Speaking in Mumbai, a city that suffered the 2008 terror attacks, Rubio underscored that both the United States and India share deep concerns regarding terrorism.
Addressing questions about balancing relationships with the two South Asian nations, Rubio clarified in an interview with India Today that the US maintains working relationships globally, including with Pakistan. He argued that continued engagement allows the US to exert influence over Islamabad's decisions on various critical issues.
US Seeks Constructive Role in India-Pakistan Tensions
Rubio also highlighted that Washington's diplomatic engagement with both India and Pakistan could be instrumental in preventing tensions from escalating into broader conflicts. While acknowledging the well-understood, longstanding friction between the neighbors, he stated the US is prepared to play a constructive role in reducing conflict risks, emphasizing a preference for trade and economic cooperation over hostility.
"In no way does the relationship with Pakistan come at the expense of our relationship with India," Senator Marco Rubio stated, reiterating shared concerns about terrorism.
The Senator described the US partnership with India as firmly established, noting that relations with Pakistan have also improved recently, creating an opportunity for Washington to engage both sides. He stressed that stronger economic ties could foster prosperity and security across the region.
Reaffirming Commitment to Counterterrorism
Reiterating Washington’s firm stance on counterterrorism, Rubio cited the US's extensive experience with terrorist attacks and its global military and intelligence operations against extremist organizations. He pointed to significant American operations against groups like ISIS and Al-Qaeda, including the mission that eliminated Osama bin Laden, as evidence of the US's unwavering commitment to confronting extremist ideologies.
Rubio's remarks sought to reassure India that despite improved engagement with Islamabad, counterterrorism remains a paramount shared priority for both Washington and New Delhi, reinforcing the broader bilateral partnership.