External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar will embark on an official visit to the United States from December 24 to 29, according to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
The visit comes as preparations are underway for US President-elect Donald Trump to assume office for his second term on January 20. Jaishankar’s agenda includes discussions with key counterparts on bilateral, regional, and global issues. The EAM will also chair a conference with India’s Consul Generals in the USA during his stay.
This diplomatic engagement follows a congratulatory phone call last month between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Donald Trump, during which Modi expressed eagerness to work together once again.
“Had a great conversation with my friend, President Donald Trump, congratulating him on his spectacular victory. Looking forward to working closely together to strengthen India-US relations across technology, defense, energy, space, and other sectors,” Modi wrote on X.
Trump, in turn, reportedly conveyed admiration for Modi, referring to him as a “magnificent man” and describing India as a “magnificent country.” Both leaders reiterated their shared commitment to fostering global peace and furthering the partnership between their nations.
As Modi rekindles diplomatic ties with Trump, it’s noteworthy that India-US relations also flourished during President Joe Biden’s tenure. The two leaders built strong rapport, engaging in multiple personal meetings over the past four years.
Most recently, they convened during the G20 Summit in Brazil and at Biden’s weekend retreat in Delaware. Last year, Biden made a historic visit to India for the G20 summit hosted by Modi, marking another milestone in their collaboration. Modi was also received in Washington during a state visit marked by ceremonial grandeur.
Biden said, “Each time, I was struck by our ability to find new areas of cooperation. Together, we’re unlocking a shared future of unlimited potential.”
Under Biden’s leadership, the India-US partnership expanded significantly. The two nations elevated the Quad—a strategic alliance involving Japan and Australia—to the summit level. Additionally, the I2U2 grouping comprising India, Israel, the UAE, and the US was established to promote cooperation across India’s western flank, mirroring the Quad’s objectives in the Indo-Pacific region.
