Once again there have been positive signals regarding the relations between India and America. It is clear from the recent talks that both the countries are trying to advance trade and strategic cooperation. Even though there are still differences on issues like tariffs and Iran, the path to dialogue is open.
On Tuesday, January 13, 2026, India's External Affairs Minister S. There was a phone conversation between Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This conversation took place at a time when Sergio Gore took over as US Ambassador to India just a few days ago. This is expected to bring new diplomatic momentum between the two countries.
Soon after assuming office, Sergio Gore said that India would be invited to join the initiative named Pax Silica. This is a US-led plan, which aims to secure the supply chain of important technologies like silicon, modern manufacturing technology and artificial intelligence. Its objective is to work with trusted countries to reduce dependence on essential technologies and keep them safe.
Foreign Minister Jaishankar wrote on social media platform X that this conversation was useful and positive. At the same time, it has also been indicated from the American side that in the coming time, there may be a face-to-face meeting between the leaders of both the countries. India and America have set a target of increasing mutual trade to more than 500 billion dollars by 2030.
Just concluded a good conversation with @SecRubio.
Discussed trade, critical minerals, nuclear cooperation, defense and energy.
Agreed to remain in touch on these and other issues.
—Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) January 13, 2026
Last year, a trade agreement could not be reached between India and America, which caused some tension in the relations. Now both the countries want to intensify talks once again. India is ready to buy more energy and defense related goods from America, so that the trade deficit can be reduced. Apart from this, the thinking of both the countries seems to be similar to a great extent on issues like maintaining peace in the Indo-Pacific region, keeping sea lanes open and increasing security cooperation.
The situation has become somewhat difficult due to the recent decisions of US President Donald Trump. He has announced that America will impose an additional tax of 25% on countries that do business with Iran. This rule has been implemented immediately. Along with this, America has also adopted a strict stance regarding the purchase of Russian oil by India. Overall, up to 50% tariffs have been imposed on Indian goods, which has increased the tension in the trade relations between the two countries.
The biggest hurdle in the India-US trade agreement is related to agriculture and dairy sector. America wants India to completely open these sectors for its market, but India is adopting a cautious approach keeping in mind the interests of its farmers and domestic industries. The American Ambassador says that the two countries are in constant touch and talks are going on regarding trade. That is, despite differences, dialogue has not stopped completely.
