U.S. Delegation Visits India for Trade and Security Talks

A high-level U.S. delegation, including Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker and Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Rick Switzer, will visit India this week to strengthen bilateral ties and advance negotiations on a trade agreement aimed at resolving longstanding tariff disputes.

Hooker arrives on Sunday for a five-day trip through Thursday, focusing on New Delhi and Bengaluru, according to a statement from the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India. She plans to meet senior Indian officials, including Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, to discuss regional security, economic collaboration and shared goals in the Indo-Pacific region. The visit includes participation in Foreign Office Consultations and engagements with leaders in India's space, energy and technology sectors. In Bengaluru, Hooker is expected to tour the Indian Space Research Organisation. Her itinerary emphasizes expanding economic and commercial ties, boosting U.S. exports and fostering cooperation in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and space exploration. The trip aligns with efforts to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific, as outlined in U.S. priorities.