US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during his four-day visit to India, expressed optimism about a forthcoming trade agreement that he described as 'beneficial' and 'sustainable' for both nations. In a media briefing alongside Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Rubio noted significant progress towards a trade deal that would address national interests. He indicated that a US trade delegation would visit India shortly to further these discussions. Rubio emphasized the importance of recalibrating trade with India, given its status as a major economy and a leading trade partner of the US. He defended the Trump administration's trade policies, stating that they aim to rectify longstanding global trade imbalances rather than create friction with specific countries. Jaishankar, on his part, raised issues regarding US visa and immigration policies, stressing that legal mobility should not be compromised, as strong people-to-people ties are crucial for the India-US relationship. The bilateral talks also covered cooperation in critical minerals, energy, and defense, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the partnership.