External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in Atlanta on Saturday. The two leaders reviewed the status of bilateral cooperation between India and the United States. Jaishankar expressed gratitude for Rubio’s hospitality in Atlanta through a post on X, stating, “Took stock of our bilateral cooperation.” This meeting follows Rubio’s official visit to India from October 20 to 22, where he had previously met with Jaishankar to discuss a proposed trade agreement.

Rubio highlighted the significance of the India-US relationship, asserting that it would not be compromised by relations with other countries, including Pakistan. In an interview with The Indian Express, he emphasised that the partnership with India is viewed as a priority. He also mentioned his previous visits to India as a testament to Washington’s commitment to the trade deal and the ongoing engagements between the two nations.

During his earlier visit to India, Rubio noted that the two countries were nearing the finalisation of a trade agreement, with only a few outstanding items remaining. His three-day visit concluded on October 22, following his meetings with Jaishankar in Mumbai.

Jaishankar’s Bilateral Engagements at G20

In addition to his meeting with Rubio, Jaishankar conducted a series of bilateral discussions with various counterparts at the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. These meetings included representatives from the European Union, Germany, Brazil, Mexico, Canada, and Argentina. The discussions aimed to strengthen bilateral ties and address significant regional and global issues.

Jaishankar reported on his discussions with Kaja Kallas, the European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, focusing on the ongoing Ukraine conflict and the situation in the Gulf region. He shared insights through a post on X, stating, “Discussed the Ukraine conflict and the Gulf situation with EU HRVP @kajakallas.” This reflects the importance of collaborative dialogue on pressing international matters.

During his meeting with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, Jaishankar expressed his satisfaction with the interaction, stating, “Great to meet FM Johann Wadephul of Germany. Always look forward to my discussions with @AussenMinDE.” This sentiment underscores the ongoing diplomatic engagement between India and Germany.

Jaishankar’s conversations with Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira centred on both bilateral relations and broader global concerns. He remarked, “A pleasure to sit down with FM Mauro Vieira of Brazil. Our conversation covered bilateral and global issues.” This highlights the multifaceted nature of India’s diplomatic efforts at the G20.

Focus on Strengthening Partnerships

In his meeting with Mexican Foreign Minister Roberto Velasco Álvarez, Jaishankar concentrated on enhancing bilateral ties and revitalising the partnership. He stated, “My meeting with FM Roberto Velasco Álvarez @r_velascoa of Mexico was focussed on giving a new impetus to our ties.” This indicates India’s commitment to fostering stronger connections with Mexico.

Jaishankar also met Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand to evaluate the progress of their bilateral cooperation. He expressed his pleasure in the meeting, saying, “Delighted to meet FM @AnitaAnandMP of Canada today. Assessed the steady growth of our cooperation.” This reflects the ongoing development of relations between India and Canada.

Furthermore, discussions with Argentine Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno addressed key topics such as trade, critical minerals, defence, and nuclear cooperation, along with multilateral issues. Jaishankar noted, “Glad to meet FM Pablo Quirno @pabloquirno of Argentina on the sidelines of @g20org #Atlanta. Discussed trade, critical minerals, defence and nuclear cooperation.” These meetings at the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting provided a platform for India to review existing partnerships and explore new avenues for international collaboration.

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