US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's Quad remarks stir debate over India's strategic position
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's Quad remarks stir debate over India's strategic position
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently referred to India, Australia, and Japan as “allies” during an interview with US media. This remark contrasts with India’s longstanding preference for terms like "partner" or "friend" to highlight its strategic autonomy in international relations.
This statement came soon after Rubio’s appointment as US Secretary of State, just a day after Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States.
India, historically cautious about its ties with the US, has avoided calling the United States an "ally," preferring instead to describe the relationship as that of a partner or a friend.
The Ministry of External Affairs' (MEA) response to Rubio’s use of the term “ally” remains awaited.
On Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar participated in the inaugural Quad ministerial meeting under the new Trump administration, alongside his counterparts from Australia, Japan, and the US. Jaishankar also met with Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. This trip was part of Jaishankar’s visit to the US for the presidential inauguration, where he also held talks with NSA Mike Waltz at the White House.
