US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said the Trump administration is working towards a visit by President Donald Trump to India in the early part of next year, as both countries continue discussions on trade and strategic cooperation.
In an interview with IANS at the White House, Rubio said he plans to visit India before the end of this year to help prepare for the proposed presidential trip.
"I look forward to returning before the end of the year and setting up a Presidential visit in the early parts of next year," Rubio said.
When asked whether Trump could visit India next year, he replied, "We're hoping. That's what we're working towards sometime early next year to have the President come."
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Trade deal discussions near final stage
Per IANS, Rubio also expressed confidence about ongoing trade negotiations between India and the United States.
"We're hoping to finalise a trade deal. We're on the last inches of getting it done, and it's very positive," he said.
The remarks come as both countries continue efforts to conclude a bilateral trade agreement that has been under discussion for several months.
Rubio praises India-US ties
The US Secretary of State said relations between the two countries remain strong following the recent meeting between President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G7 Summit.
"I think it's going fantastic. I mean, it's very strong," he said. "We had a great meeting with the Prime Minister. The President did at the G7."
Rubio also described India as one of America's closest partners.
"India is such a close partner and ally of the United States, and the relationship between the Prime Minister and the President couldn't be closer, which I think is really important in diplomacy."
Focus on Quad cooperation
Rubio said Washington is also looking forward to another meeting of Quad leaders.
"We look forward to re-engaging again in another Quad meeting very soon," he said.
The United States, India, Japan and Australia continue to expand cooperation through the Quad on regional security, technology, supply chains and maritime issues.
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President Trump last visited India in February 2020 during the "Namaste Trump" event in Ahmedabad before holding bilateral talks in New Delhi.
FAQs:
When will Donald Trump visit India?
Marco Rubio said the administration is working towards a visit early next year.
What did Rubio say about the India-US trade deal?
He said the negotiations are in the final stages and remain positive.
