External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in New York on Monday, where they discussed various bilateral and international matters of current concern. This meeting took place on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and marked their first face-to-face interaction since trade tensions escalated due to tariffs imposed by the US on Indian goods.

Jaishankar shared on social media that their conversation emphasized the need for sustained engagement in priority areas. He stated, "Good to meet Secretary of State Marco Rubio this morning in New York. Our conversation covered a range of bilateral and international issues of current concern. Agreed on the importance of sustained engagement to progress on priority areas. We will remain in touch."

The backdrop of this meeting includes recent trade frictions, particularly after US President Donald Trump imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods in July, followed by another 25 per cent tariff on Russian oil imports. This has raised the total tariff to 50 per cent, the highest on any of America's trade partners, excluding Mexico.

In addition to their discussions, India and the US have resumed talks aimed at finalizing a trade agreement. Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is leading the Indian delegation in these discussions, which are seen as crucial for strengthening economic ties between the two nations. The US Trade Representative's team recently held positive discussions in India, and both sides are keen to expedite the process of reaching a mutually beneficial deal.

Jaishankar's visit to the US also includes meetings with other foreign ministers and is expected to culminate in his delivery of India's national statement at the UNGA on September 27.