Rubio Meets Modi in New Delhi to Discuss Trade and Energy

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Saturday, covering trade, energy and security. The visit is expected to help repair relations between the two countries, which have been strained by US tariffs and Washington's contacts with Pakistan and China.

Rubio stressed that US energy products could help diversify India's energy supply. Washington has also made clear that it does not want Iran to gain influence over global energy markets. The conflict over Iran has further complicated US efforts to reduce India's dependence on Russian oil.

Tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump have also weighed on bilateral relations. Although the United States has partially reduced them, a comprehensive trade agreement has yet to be concluded.

Rubio also invited Modi to the White House. Next week, India will host a meeting of foreign ministers of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), which comprises India, the United States, Japan and Australia.

(reuters, lud)