India, US discuss energy and defence as Rubio visits Mumbai

India and the United States have held fresh discussions on energy security and defence cooperation as both countries seek to advance their strategic relationship amid ongoing bilateral differences.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in Mumbai on Tuesday, shortly after arriving in India for a three-day visit. The meeting covered several areas of cooperation, with energy and defence featuring prominently in their discussions.

Rubio said the two sides had reaffirmed the importance of strengthening the US-India strategic partnership. His visit also included a tribute to victims of the November 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks. He visited the Taj memorial and laid a wreath in remembrance of those killed, including six American citizens.

Energy cooperation was another important focus of the visit. Rubio explained that refining capacity was a key consideration in discussions about making energy resources commercially usable and said he intended to visit Reliance Industries’ refinery in Jamnagar on Wednesday.

He noted that engaging directly with a company possessing extensive refining infrastructure would help the US understand potential areas of cooperation and the practical possibilities involving major national energy players.

The proposed refinery visit highlights the importance of energy infrastructure in the wider bilateral relationship. Refining, energy supply and security have become significant considerations in discussions between the two countries.

Rubio’s meetings with Jaishankar come against the backdrop of strains in India-US relations. Despite those differences, the latest discussions indicate that both governments continue to engage on strategic priorities, including defence ties and energy security.

The three-day visit is expected to provide further opportunities for dialogue on areas where the two countries share interests, even as wider diplomatic and economic challenges remain.