EAM Jaishankar and US Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau Discuss Strengthening Ties
Synopsis
In a significant meeting at the Raisina Dialogue 2026, EAM S. Jaishankar and US Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau focus on enhancing bilateral cooperation, trade agreements, and shared visions for the Indo-Pacific region.
Key Takeaways
Jaishankar met US Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau at the Raisina Dialogue 2026.
Discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in defense and trade.
India and the US announced a framework for an Interim Trade Agreement .
The Raisina Dialogue serves as a key platform for addressing global challenges.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi supports strengthened ties with the US.
New Delhi, March 5 (NationPress) The External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar engaged in discussions with the United States Deputy Secretary of State, Christopher Landau, during the Raisina Dialogue 2026 in New Delhi on Thursday.
Landau is visiting India from March 3-6 to represent the US at the Raisina Dialogue and further the objectives of President Donald Trump's 'America First' policy.
According to the US State Department, "The Deputy Secretary will also engage with senior Indian officials to explore avenues for enhancing bilateral collaboration in defense, critical minerals, and counternarcotics; strengthen commercial and economic relations to facilitate American businesses' market access; and promote our mutual vision for a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region."
The 11th Raisina Dialogue, India's premier conference on geopolitics and geo-economics, launched in New Delhi on Thursday, uniting various global leaders, policymakers, and strategic thinkers.
This three-day event, hosted by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), gathers heads of state, ministers, scholars, industry leaders, think tanks, and media representatives to address significant global issues.
Recently, India and the US revealed a framework for an Interim Agreement on reciprocal, mutually advantageous trade, aimed at propelling discussions toward a more comprehensive bilateral trade agreement as the White House officially announced a reduction in tariffs on Indian imports.
A joint statement confirmed the commitment of both nations to negotiate a US-India Bilateral Trade Agreement, which was initiated by President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 13, 2025. This interim deal is intended to yield early results and bolster more resilient supply chains, as per officials.
"The Interim Agreement between the United States and India will signify a historic milestone in our nations' partnership, showcasing a shared commitment to reciprocal and balanced trade rooted in mutual interests and tangible outcomes," the statement read.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke with President Donald Trump via phone last month.
"President Trump’s leadership is crucial for global peace, stability, and prosperity. India wholeheartedly backs his peace initiatives. I am eager to collaborate closely with him to elevate our partnership to unprecedented levels," PM Modi remarked after their conversation.
Point of View
The outcomes of these talks could shape future regional dynamics, reflecting a commitment to mutual interests and a stable Indo-Pacific.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of Christopher Landau's visit to India?
Christopher Landau's visit aimed to represent the US at the Raisina Dialogue and discuss bilateral cooperation on various issues including defense and trade.
What is the Raisina Dialogue?
The Raisina Dialogue is India's flagship conference focused on geopolitics and geo-economics, bringing together global leaders and policymakers to discuss pressing challenges.
What topics were discussed during the meeting?
The meeting covered bilateral cooperation in defense, critical minerals, counternarcotics, and enhancing trade relations between the US and India.
When did the US-India Bilateral Trade Agreement discussions begin?
Discussions for the US-India Bilateral Trade Agreement began on February 13, 2025, initiated by President Trump and Prime Minister Modi.
What are the expected outcomes of the Interim Agreement?
The Interim Agreement aims to deliver early results and support resilient supply chains while reaffirming the commitment to a broader bilateral trade agreement.
