Indian Ambassador to the United States Vinay Kwatra on Monday met with US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker, calling the engagement a “productive discussion” on advancing the India-US partnership.

Sharing a picture of the meeting on X, Kwatra said the talks echoed the “sentiments of our leaders” and reaffirmed commitments through bilateral and Quad initiatives under the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

The meeting came shortly after US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi exchanged warm remarks, signaling a reset after weeks of friction. On Friday, Trump praised Modi as a “great Prime Minister” and assured reporters at the White House that “India and the United States have a special relationship. There’s nothing to worry about.” Modi reciprocated on Saturday, saying he “appreciates and fully reciprocates” Trump’s sentiments.

Ambassador Kwatra has also stepped up outreach with lawmakers on Capitol Hill. On September 3, he met Rep. Gregory Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, to brief him on developments in the bilateral relationship. Discussions touched on trade, energy, Indo-Pacific cooperation, and wider strategic interests. Rep. Meeks emphasized Congress’ longstanding bipartisan support for strengthening the US-India partnership, particularly through frameworks like the Quad.

These diplomatic engagements come as India navigates new US trade pressures. On August 27, President Trump doubled tariffs on Indian imports from 25 to 50 per cent, citing New Delhi’s continued purchase of discounted Russian oil amid the Ukraine conflict.

Despite trade challenges, both governments appear focused on maintaining momentum in strategic, economic, and security cooperation, underscoring the importance of India-US ties in the evolving Indo-Pacific landscape.