Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Jan 25: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday held talks with a three-member US Congressional delegation, discussing key aspects of India-US relations, including trade, security and global developments, against the backdrop of continuing strain in bilateral ties.

The American delegation comprised Jimmy Patronis, Mike Rogers and Adam Smith. US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor was also present at the meeting.

In a social media post, Jaishankar described the interaction as “good”, stating that discussions covered various dimensions of India-US ties as well as regional and global issues.

“Discussed various aspects of India-US ties, Indo-Pacific and Ukraine conflict. Congressional interactions have always been an important facet of our relationship,” Jaishankar said.

Ambassador Gor termed the talks “productive”, noting that the focus was on strengthening cooperation in critical areas. “Just wrapped a productive meeting with EAM @DrSJaishankar, @RepMikeRogersAL, @RepAdamSmith and @JimmyPatronis on ways to strengthen US-India partnership for stronger security, expanded trade and cooperation on critical technologies,” he said in a post on X.

The visit comes at a time when both sides are seeking to move forward with negotiations on a proposed bilateral trade agreement, even as relations remain under pressure.

India-US ties witnessed a major downturn after former US President Donald Trump imposed a 50 per cent tariff on Indian goods, including a 25 per cent punitive levy linked to India’s purchase of Russian oil.

Despite multiple rounds of negotiations held last year, the proposed trade deal could not be finalised, primarily due to Washington’s demand for greater access to India’s farm and dairy sectors.

Apart from trade-related issues, bilateral relations have also been strained over Trump’s claims of ending the India-Pakistan conflict in May last year, as well as concerns surrounding new US immigration policies.