US Secretary of State Antony Blinken engaged in crucial discussions with India’s external affairs minister, S Jaishankar, preceding the anticipated “two-plus-two” talks. Jaishankar underscored the significance of Blinken’s visit, emphasizing the imperative to build upon the diplomatic exchanges between Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June and US President Joe Biden in September.
During the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, Jaishankar highlighted the comprehensive nature of the discussions, particularly addressing concerns over the Indo-Pacific region as members of the QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) and expressing deep apprehension regarding the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Expressing gratitude, Jaishankar acknowledged the instrumental support of the United States and President Biden during the G20 Summit in September. He credited this support as pivotal to achieving consensus and successful outcomes at the summit.
Blinken, in turn, expressed pleasure at being in India and emphasized the strengthening ties between the two nations. He described the bilateral partnership as the strongest ever, extending regionally and globally, with India’s leadership showcased during the G20 Summit.
Acknowledging a shared focus on the Indo-Pacific, Blinken emphasized the urgency of collaboration between the US and India in the region. He articulated the commitment to building the future together, characterizing the Indo-Pacific as a region of immediate strategic importance.
Blinken, who arrived in New Delhi after a series of diplomatic engagements, will join US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and counterparts Jaishankar and defense minister Rajnath Singh for the 5th India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, focusing on defense and security cooperation.
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi highlighted that Blinken’s visit will further boost the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. The visit is poised to contribute significantly to the ongoing diplomatic relations between the two nations.
