United States Under Secretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby is in India to engage with senior officials. Although the visit is a pre-scheduled one, it assumes importance in the light of the West Asia crisis.
It coincides with US President Donald Trump’s decision to pause bombing on Iran after 24 days of an intense joint campaign with Israel. While Trump said that Washington and Tehran are engaged in negotiations to reach a deal, Iran denied the claim.
The visit marks a landmark moment as it is Colby’s first official trip to the country. He is widely regarded as “one of the key figures behind the making of US defence policy” during the second term of the Trump administration. Check Iran War Live Updates Here
As per a statement by the Department of War, “Colby travels to India today to engage with senior officials in New Delhi to help advance the critical India-U.S. relationship. Under Secretary Colby’s visit will focus on advancing the goals established by President Trump and Prime Minister Modi in their February 2025 joint statement and on implementing the Framework for the U.S.-India Major Defense Partnership.”
US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor had earlier announced the upcoming visit of top defence official Elbridge Colby to the country.
In a post on the social media platform X, Ambassador Gor expressed his anticipation for the arrival of the United States Under Secretary of War for Policy. “Looking forward to welcoming Under Secretary of War Elbridge Colby to India!” he stated.
Earlier on Monday, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar held a phone call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The two leaders discussed the impact of West Asia conflict on the global economy, with a particular focus on energy security.
“Our discussions focused on the West Asia conflict and its impact on the international economy. We particularly spoke about energy security concerns. Agreed to remain in touch,” EAM Jaishankar said in a post on X.
In Washington, the State Department read out of the call said that Rubio and Jaishankar agreed on the importance of continuing to work together to advance mutual priorities. The two officials discussed the current situation in the Middle East, Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott said.