India and US Close to Trade Deal as Jaishankar Meets Marco Rubio at ASEAN Summit:

In a significant diplomatic engagement, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday (October 27, 2025) in Kuala Lumpur, on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit. The meeting focused on strengthening India–U.S. bilateral relations, deepening strategic cooperation, and reviewing regional and global developments, as both sides move closer to finalizing a long-awaited bilateral trade deal. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar shared, “Glad to meet @SecRubio this morning in Kuala Lumpur. Appreciated the discussion on our bilateral ties as well as regional and global issues.” His post underscored the constructive tone of the talks, coming at a time when trade negotiations between the two countries have reached an advanced stage. According to officials, five rounds of discussions have already been completed for the first phase of the India–U.S. trade agreement, and the deal is said to be “very near” conclusion. The agreement aims to enhance market access, reduce trade barriers, and foster long-term economic collaboration between the two democracies. Sources indicate that both sides are taking a careful, phased approach to ensure that the agreement serves mutual interests without compromising policy flexibility. India’s position, officials say, is focused on ensuring that trade partnerships are based on trust, reciprocity, and long-term sustainability, rather than short-term concessions. The meeting between Jaishankar and Rubio also covered a wide range of strategic and regional issues, particularly developments in the Indo-Pacific region, where both India and the U.S. are seeking to promote stability, economic growth, and a free and open maritime order. The ASEAN Summit provided the perfect backdrop for these discussions, emphasizing the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing emerging challenges in Asia. On Sunday, ahead of his meeting with Rubio, Jaishankar also held separate talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, and Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow. These discussions reflect India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its engagement with Southeast Asia under its “Act East” policy, which seeks to build stronger political, economic, and cultural ties with ASEAN member states. As the ASEAN Summit continues in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — which is chairing the bloc this year — regional cooperation remains at the forefront of the agenda. ASEAN, a key pillar of the Indo-Pacific framework, includes 11 nations and serves as an influential platform connecting major powers such as India, the U.S., China, Japan, and Australia. Why the Meeting Matters The Jaishankar–Rubio talks mark a critical step forward in India–U.S. relations, signaling a growing convergence of strategic and economic interests. If the trade agreement is finalized soon, it could open new opportunities for both nations — boosting exports, encouraging investments, and reinforcing their partnership in technology, defense, and clean energy. The meeting also reinforces India’s role as a pivotal player in regional diplomacy, using platforms like ASEAN to advance cooperation, maintain balance, and shape the evolving Indo-Pacific order. As negotiations near completion, all eyes will be on how quickly New Delhi and Washington can bridge the final gaps and officially announce the first phase of their trade pact — a move that could redefine India–U.S. economic relations for years to come.

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