In a significant diplomatic move, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday ahead of the annual “two-plus-two” talks. The high-level meeting aimed to build upon the visits of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June and US President Joe Biden in September.
Expressing the particular significance of Blinken’s visit, Jaishankar emphasized the need for a comprehensive follow-up to the discussions initiated during the previous visits of leaders from both nations. The “two-plus-two” Ministerial Dialogue provides a platform for a broader assessment of the bilateral relationship, going beyond specific areas of cooperation.
Jaishankar underscored the multifaceted nature of the discussions, with a particular focus on the Indo-Pacific region, where India and the US are members of the QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue). Additionally, the ongoing conflicts in West Asia were addressed as a “big concern.” Expressing gratitude, Jaishankar acknowledged the instrumental support of the United States during the recently concluded G20 Summit in September.
He stated, “We had a very successful G20 Summit in September, and I do want to thank you, the US government, and President Biden on behalf of Prime Minister Modi because I think without the strong support which the US gave us, I don’t think we would have got the consensus and the outcomes that we did.”
Strengthening Regional and Global Alliances
In response, Blinken expressed pleasure at being in India and highlighted the robustness of the bilateral partnership. Stressing the collaborative approach, he acknowledged India’s leadership during the G20 Summit and emphasized the strong regional and global ties between the two nations.
Blinken stated, “It is always wonderful to be here in India. We are building a remarkable year of engagement… We have not only the strongest bilateral partnership we’ve ever had, but also a regional one, and indeed, a global one that was further evidenced by India’s leadership for the G20 this year.”
Focus on Indo-Pacific and Defence Cooperation
Acknowledging the shared focus on the Indo-Pacific, Blinken emphasized the urgency of collaboration between the US and India in the region. The upcoming 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, which will include discussions on defence and security cooperation, is expected to enhance the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Blinken arrived in New Delhi as part of an extensive diplomatic tour, including visits to South Korea, Japan for a G7 foreign ministers’ meeting, and the Middle East. The talks in India aim to further boost the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership between the two countries.
In a social media post, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi welcomed Blinken to India and expressed anticipation for a successful 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, reinforcing the strong bilateral ties.
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