US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's upcoming four-day visit to India from May 23 to May 26 is seen as a crucial attempt to mend the frayed ties between the two nations, which have faced significant challenges over the past year. The relationship deteriorated following the Trump administration's imposition of a 50% tariff on Indian imports, causing economic strain and strategic anxiety in New Delhi. As Rubio engages in discussions on trade, defense, and energy security, he aims to reassure India of the US's commitment to their partnership, particularly in the context of countering China's influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

A key focus of the visit will be revitalizing the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), which includes India, the US, Japan, and Australia. The Quad has seen diminished activity recently, and Rubio's participation in a foreign ministers' meeting on May 26 is intended to reinvigorate this alliance. Additionally, energy security is a pressing concern, with the US looking to position itself as a reliable energy partner for India amidst disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions in the Persian Gulf. Despite these diplomatic efforts, India remains cautious about fully aligning with the US, seeking to maintain its strategic autonomy while balancing its international partnerships.