Rubio Says India Key to Indo-Pacific Partnership

by T. Vishnudatta Jayaraman May 23, 2026

By T. Vishnudatta Jayaraman May 23, 2026 0 comments 3 minutes read

PHOTO: X@SecRubio

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the relationship between the United States and India remains at the “cornerstone” of Washington’s approach to the Indo-Pacific region, underscoring the growing strategic, economic, and diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Speaking at the U.S. Embassy Support Annex Dedication Ceremony in New Delhi on May 23 alongside U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, Rubio highlighted the importance of the bilateral partnership and pointed to the role of the Quad grouping in advancing regional cooperation.

“It is this relationship between our two countries is at the cornerstone of our approach to the Indo-Pacific. A lot of people aren’t aware of this or – but I was sworn in as Secretary of State on Tuesday or Wednesday – it was a Tuesday after the inauguration,” Rubio said, adding that his first official meeting as Secretary of State was with the Quad nations.

Rubio noted that the United States deliberately chose India as the venue for a subsequent Quad meeting as a “tangible sign” of India’s growing importance in America’s Indo-Pacific strategy.

He also emphasized the relationship between U.S. President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing it as a longstanding “personal relationship” that began during Trump’s first administration and has continued into the second term. Rubio said the rapport between the two leaders forms an important foundation for bilateral ties.

According to Rubio, the U.S.-India partnership has expanded significantly over the past year through investments, commercial engagement, and defense cooperation. He pointed to more than $20 billion in investments by Indian companies in the United States and highlighted ongoing military exercises in the Indo-Pacific region.

Rubio also announced that the United States is introducing a new America First visa scheduling tool aimed at prioritizing business professionals who contribute to strengthening bilateral economic ties.

Referring to the inauguration of the new embassy facility, Rubio said the building represented more than infrastructure and reflected Washington’s commitment to deepening ties with India. He added that the purpose of his visit was to “reaffirm” the relationship and build upon existing cooperation between the two countries. Rubio further indicated that additional announcements related to bilateral engagement could be expected in the coming months.

Praising Ambassador Gor, Rubio described him as a “friend” and commended his enthusiasm and leadership in strengthening diplomatic engagement between the two nations. Rubio also acknowledged the contributions of locally employed staff at the U.S. mission, describing them as an integral part of the diplomatic team.

Ambassador Sergio Gor said the newly inaugurated facility, while physically built of “stone and steel,” was ultimately designed to support “people, entrepreneurs, students, and families” in advancing shared ambitions between the United States and India.

“We are here because we believe that a strong America and a strong India are essential to the world,” Gor said, noting that Indian companies have committed approximately $20.5 billion to the U.S. economy.

Gor said the facility, which will house consular operations along with other embassy offices, reflects American confidence in India and will support innovators, businesses, and professionals contributing to bilateral trade and economic growth.

He also referenced a meeting the Secretary and him had earlier in the day with Prime Minister Modi, saying the U.S.-India relationship remains “on solid footing” with “limitless potential” ahead.