US Secretary of State Marco Rubio speaking to IANS, has said the Donald Trump administration is working towards arranging a visit to India by US President Donald Trump early next year. He described India as one of Washington’s closest strategic partners and expressed confidence that preparations for the trip are moving in a positive direction.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says, “We’re hoping that’s what we’re working towards – sometime early next year to have the President come. I think it’s very positive. 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.”
IANS Exclusive
Washington DC, US: When asked about US President Donald Trump’s possible visit to India next year, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says, “We’re hoping that’s what we’re working towards – sometime early next year to have the President come. I think it’s very… pic.twitter.com/soumURKZ91
— IANS (@ians_india) June 27, 2026
Speaking about the proposed visit, Rubio said efforts are underway to finalise the schedule for the US President’s travel. He also confirmed that he expects to visit India before the end of the year to assist with preparations for the high-level engagement between the two countries.
Trump-Modi Ties Highlighted as Diplomatic Strength
Rubio emphasised the close relationship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump, describing it as an important factor in strengthening bilateral diplomacy. He noted that the two leaders most recently held talks on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France, marking their first bilateral meeting in over a year.
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The US Secretary of State said negotiations on a bilateral trade agreement are progressing well. According to Rubio, discussions have reached the final stage, with both governments working towards concluding the deal in the near future.
Quad Cooperation to Continue
Rubio also indicated that India and the United States are looking forward to another meeting of the Quad grouping, which includes Japan and Australia. He said continued cooperation within the Quad remains an important element of regional and strategic engagement.
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Rubio Praises PM Modi’s Leadership
During his remarks, Rubio praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, stating that he has played a significant role in enhancing India’s global standing. He said India’s growing influence has strengthened its position on the international stage.
Negotiations on the proposed India-US trade agreement are nearing completion, with officials from both countries indicating that discussions have entered the final phase. The deal aims to expand bilateral trade, improve market access, strengthen economic cooperation, and create new opportunities for businesses, further deepening the strategic partnership between India and the United States.
