India, US strategically united on critical minerals and technology: Rubio

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed India’s status as one of America’s most critical global strategic partners during a joint press briefing with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in New Delhi. Rubio underscored deep alignment between the two democracies on counter-terrorism, critical minerals, and resilient supply chains, framing these as essential 21st-century priorities. The US official noted that both nations face threats from global terrorist networks, reinforcing their counter-terrorism cooperation. He emphasized that democratic accountability—justifying policies to voters and media—strengthens mutual trust and decision-making. Rubio expanded on the partnership’s global scope, citing shared interests in the Western Hemisphere, the Strait of Hormuz, and beyond. He warned against over-reliance on single sources for critical minerals, calling it a defining challenge for modern economies. The discussion also touched on technological innovation, acknowledging risks and rewards in emerging advancements. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring these developments benefit their societies while maintaining strategic coordination. Jaishankar and Rubio’s remarks followed Rubio’s visit to India, where he engaged with officials on regional and global issues. The dialogue highlighted the US’s view of India as a key ally in addressing challenges from terrorism to economic security.