India, US Deepen Strategic Partnership, Vow Zero Tolerance for Terrorism

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Sunday highlighted the deepening strategic partnership between India and the United States at a celebration marking the 250th Independence Day of the US, attended by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Speaking at the event, Jaishankar said India and the US share a strong interest in combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. "We must always be clear about zero tolerance for terrorism, and that is why our counter terrorism cooperation is so important," he said.

The EAM noted that the world is in an era of transition, adding that this makes the case for the bilateral relationship even stronger. He said both nations have a common interest in de-risking the global economy and providing the world with more choices.

Jaishankar underscored the shared democratic and economic values that underpin the relationship. "We are both political democracies, we are market economies, and we are open societies," he said, adding that these shared traits have been strengthened in recent times by a convergence of national interests enabling both sides to overcome what he called "the hesitations of history."

He said the strategic partnership between the two countries now spans trade and investment, defence and security, critical and emerging technologies, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, energy, space, education, health, and culture.

The EAM also noted the significance of Secretary Rubio's visit his first to India and pointed to the value of the Quad and other plurilateral platforms where India and the US collaborate.

He recalled the pathway set out by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump a year ago to advance the bilateral partnership and serve global good. "Your visit, Mr Secretary, and this celebration allow us to reaffirm our commitment to that vision," Jaishankar said.