2 hours ago
Last Updated:February 04, 2026, 01:34 IST
Jaishankar’s meeting with Bessent comes hours after India and the United States announced a new trade deal lowering tariffs.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on expanding economic partnership and strategic cooperation. (IMAGE: X/@sjaishankar)
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday held a “useful discussion" with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington, even as India and the United States announced a major trade deal aimed at boosting bilateral economic ties.
“Pleased to meet US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington DC today. Had a useful discussion on advancement of India-US economic partnership and strategic cooperation," Jaishankar said in a post on X after the meeting.
The talks with Bessent came during Jaishankar’s official visit to the United States from February 2 to 4, which includes a series of high-level engagements with the new US administration.
Later on Tuesday, Jaishankar is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the State Department. The meeting precedes the inaugural Critical Minerals Ministerial convened by Rubio on Wednesday, where India and the US are expected to discuss cooperation in strategic supply chains and emerging technologies.
During his visit, Jaishankar will also hold meetings with other senior members of the US administration, the Ministry of External Affairs said.
The diplomatic engagements take place just a day after US President Donald Trump announced that India and the United States had agreed on a trade deal to lower tariffs. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Washington would reduce the reciprocal tariff on India from 25 per cent to 18 per cent.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the announcement, calling it a significant step forward for bilateral economic cooperation.
“Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18 per cent. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement," PM Modi wrote on X.
Handpicked stories, in your inbox
A newsletter with the best of our journalism
Location :
Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)
First Published:
February 04, 2026, 01:34 IST
News world S Jaishankar Holds ‘Useful Discussion’ With Treasury Secy Bessent As India, US Announce Trade Deal
Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Read More
