US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, saying India has made significant economic progress and is playing a bigger role on the global stage.

 

In an interview with a news agency at the White House, Rubio said the Trump administration viewed India as one of the United States’ closest strategic partners. He said Prime Minister Modi has led a country that is making strong economic gains and becoming an increasingly influential global power.

 

Rubio also said the relationship between Prime Minister Modi and President Donald Trump is very close, adding that it is important for diplomacy. The US Secretary of State said the two countries share common values and interests as democracies, providing a strong foundation for closer cooperation.

 

He identified areas such as trade, supply chains, critical minerals, energy, security and freedom of navigation as key sectors where India and the United States are expanding cooperation. Rubio also highlighted the contribution of the Indian-American community in strengthening ties between the two countries.