Washington DC [US], July 2 (ANI) – US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the robust partnership between the United States and India during a bilateral meeting with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, as confirmed by State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce. The discussions centered on advancing the US-India COMPACT, a strategic initiative aimed at boosting collaboration in trade, defense, energy, and countering illegal immigration and narcotics.

Rubio also held separate meetings with foreign ministers from Japan and Australia, underscoring the importance of alliances in maintaining Indo-Pacific stability. With Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi, he explored deeper security and energy cooperation, while with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, he discussed strengthening critical mineral supply chains and regional security.

The Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, hosted by Rubio, brought together leaders from India, Japan, and Australia to reaffirm their shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific. The group announced the launch of the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative, a bold step to enhance economic security and diversify supply chains.

In a joint statement, Quad members condemned terrorism in all forms, specifically referencing the April 22 Pahalgam attack, and called for accountability for the perpetrators. The meeting highlighted the Quad’s commitment to regional peace, security, and prosperity.