US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has assured India that Washington’s growing engagement with Pakistan will not come at the expense of its partnership with New Delhi. He said both countries share concerns over terrorism.
In an exclusive interview during his India visit, Rubio made the remarks at Mumbai’s Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, which was among the sites targeted in the 26/11 terror attacks in 2008.
Rubio said maintaining ties with Pakistan could give Washington greater influence over Islamabad’s decisions. He also expressed concern over tensions between India and Pakistan, adding that the US was willing to play a constructive role to prevent another conflict.
He said Washington wanted both neighbours to prioritise trade, commerce and economic cooperation rather than move towards war.
Reaffirming the US commitment to counterterrorism, Rubio cited American operations against the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda, including the operation that killed Al-Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden. He also referred to US counterterrorism operations in parts of Africa.
Rubio said the US remained committed to confronting extremist groups and ideologies that threaten countries, including India, while maintaining its relationships with partners across the region.