S. Jaishankar and American lawmakers discuss trade, energy, security and technology cooperation (Img: X)
Mumbai: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met a US Congressional delegation in Mumbai on Tuesday to discuss key aspects of India-US relations, including trade, energy, security and technology. The meeting comes ahead of Jaishankar’s scheduled talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, highlighting continued high-level engagement between the two countries.
The delegation comprised Jason Smith, David Schweikert, Elise Stefanik, Andy Ogles and Laura Friedman. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and other officials were also present during the discussions.
In a post on X, Jaishankar said he appreciated the delegation’s positive approach towards strengthening bilateral ties. The discussions also covered ease of doing business in India and opportunities to deepen cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
Pleased to meet US Congressional Delegation comprising @RepJasonSmith, @DavidSchweikert, @RepStefanik, @RepOgles and @RepFriedmanCA in Mumbai today.
Appreciate their positive sentiments and interest in taking forward India - US ties. Specifically discussed trade, energy, security and technology aspects of our relationship.
Also spoke about ease of doing business in India, and deepening of our Indo - Pacific cooperation.
🇮🇳 🇺🇸
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 20, 2026
Trade, energy security, technological advancements and regional cooperation remain important areas of engagement between New Delhi and Washington as both countries seek to expand their strategic and economic partnership.
Jaishankar is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio later on Tuesday. Rubio’s visit is expected to provide an opportunity for both sides to review bilateral relations and identify avenues for further cooperation.
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The Ministry of External Affairs said the talks are expected to cover trade, energy, investment, defence, critical and emerging technologies along with regional and global developments.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on October 16 that the visit would help sustain high-level engagement and advance shared priorities under the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.
During his Mumbai engagements, Rubio will pay tribute at the 26/11 memorial at the Taj Hotel and attend the ‘Freedom 250’ reception marking the 250th anniversary of American independence as a Guest of Honour. He is also expected to meet Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Following his Mumbai visit, Rubio will travel to Jamnagar in Gujarat for discussions that are expected to include enhanced energy cooperation.
According to the US State Department, this will be Rubio’s second official visit to India this year. He is also scheduled to meet senior Indian officials and business leaders to strengthen strategic relations, discuss global developments and explore opportunities for commercial investment and economic cooperation.
