Swapna Kumbar , Bengaluru - US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has described India as a “great partner” and signaled Washington’s willingness to significantly expand bilateral energy cooperation ahead of his official visit to the country from May 23 to May 26. Rubio’s trip, which includes stops in Kolkata, Agra, Jaipur, and New Delhi, comes at a time when India and the United States are strengthening strategic ties across energy, trade, technology, and regional security amid shifting global geopolitical dynamics.

Speaking before his India visit, Rubio emphasized that Washington sees New Delhi as one of its most important strategic partners in the Indo-Pacific region and expressed optimism about expanding collaboration in energy security and supply diversification. Officials indicated that discussions during the visit are expected to focus on crude oil imports, liquefied natural gas (LNG) cooperation, clean energy investments, and broader economic engagement between the two countries. The visit also comes amid continuing global uncertainty in energy markets due to Middle East tensions and disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz, making energy partnerships increasingly important for both nations.

Rubio is also expected to hold meetings with senior Indian leaders in New Delhi covering defense cooperation, regional security, trade relations, and Indo-Pacific strategy. Analysts say the multi city visit reflects Washington’s broader effort to strengthen political, economic, and cultural engagement with India as both countries continue deepening cooperation in response to changing global power dynamics. The United States has increasingly viewed India as a critical partner in maintaining economic stability and strategic balance across Asia.

Rubio’s remarks and upcoming India visit highlight the growing importance of the US-India relationship at a time of rising geopolitical uncertainty and energy challenges worldwide. With both countries seeking stronger economic and strategic cooperation, the visit is expected to further reinforce ties between two of the world’s largest democracies.