Marco Rubio Says Trump ‘Loves India’, Reaffirms Strategic Partnership During New Delhi Visit
Report by Suman Munshi, Chief Editor, IBG NEWS
New Delhi, May 25, 2026: United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the strength of India-US relations during remarks to the press in New Delhi, emphasizing President Donald Trump’s strong support for India and describing the bilateral partnership as one of America’s most important strategic relationships.
Responding to questions from journalists following his engagements in India, Rubio addressed a wide range of international issues including Iran, Lebanon, Pakistan, terrorism, and the evolving geopolitical significance of India in global affairs.
Rubio: “President Trump Loves India”
During the interaction, Rubio strongly dismissed suggestions that President Trump held negative views about India, reiterating the close relationship between Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“The President loves India. He said it last night. The President’s a big fan of India, a big fan of Prime Minister Modi,” Rubio stated.
Rubio further pointed out that his own visit to India and the appointment of Sergio Gor as U.S. Ambassador to India reflected the Trump administration’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
India Described as a Key Strategic Ally
Comparing India and China during the press briefing, Rubio highlighted India’s democratic credentials and strategic importance for the United States.
“India is the most populous country in the world. It’s a democracy. It’s a strong strategic ally of the United States,” he remarked.
Rubio said India and the United States share major opportunities for cooperation in technology, trade, security, and regional stability, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
Concerns Over Terrorism From Pakistani Territory
Addressing a question regarding Pakistan, Rubio acknowledged India’s concerns over cross-border terrorism.
According to Rubio, India consistently points to the presence of armed terrorist groups operating from Pakistani territory that target India.
While discussing Pakistan’s role in facilitating diplomatic efforts involving Iran, Rubio clarified that India did not raise objections regarding Islamabad’s mediation role in the Iran issue during his discussions.
Iran Nuclear Talks Still Under Negotiation
On the Iran nuclear issue, Rubio said negotiations remain ongoing and described the current diplomatic efforts as “a work in progress.”
The Secretary of State stated that the United States has presented what he termed a “solid” proposal concerning the reopening of strategic maritime routes and broader nuclear negotiations. He stressed that President Trump would not accept a “bad deal” with Iran.
“We’re either going to have a good agreement or we’re going to have to deal with it another way,” Rubio said.
Rubio also emphasized that Washington would continue giving diplomacy “every chance to succeed” before considering alternative measures.
Lebanon, Hizballah and Regional Stability
Discussing developments in West Asia, Rubio said the United States is separately engaged in negotiations involving Lebanon and Israel, including efforts to maintain a 45-day ceasefire.
Rubio sharply criticized Hizballah, describing it as “a terrorist group” and “100 percent Iranian proxy.” He argued that lasting peace in Lebanon would remain difficult as long as Hizballah continued operating as an armed force.
The Secretary of State also reiterated Israel’s right to defend itself against missile attacks and security threats.
Rubio Praises India’s Culture and Heritage
During the interaction, Rubio also spoke about visiting the Taj Mahal during his India trip, describing it as one of the world’s iconic wonders.
He said the visit reflected respect for the culture and history of countries the United States engages with diplomatically. Rubio also praised the scale of the “Freedom 250” celebrations held at the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, which marked 250 years of American independence.
Referring to India as “the most populous country in the world,” Rubio remarked that the celebration had to be conducted “big” considering the significance of the partnership between the two democracies.
