India-US trade deal in final stages: Marco Rubio

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the process of finalizing a trade deal with India is nearly complete. Speaking to reporters in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, today, Mr. Rubio justified the US decision to grant temporary sanctions relief to countries that buy oil and gas from Russia.

He said the aim is to maintain global energy availability and reduce pressure on prices. He added that every country should take into account its geographical location and the challenges of accessing alternative energy sources when making foreign policy decisions. Marco Rubio will arrive in Mumbai tomorrow, where he will meet with External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. He is also expected to visit Jamnagar later this week. (UPDATED ON 19TH OCTOBER 2026)