Rubio told reporters that Washington’s threat to impose up to 100‑percent duties on imports from Russia‑aligned states could hit India, but he stressed the measure is tied to the Ukraine war, not India.
The U.S. visa policy overhaul, which adds stricter background checks and a new biometric system, has drawn criticism from Indian diplomats who fear it could strain the flow of students and business travelers. The change will take effect on December 1.
During the meeting, Jaishankar highlighted that India accounts for 1.7% of U.S. trade, and the two sides agreed to finalize the FTA by the end of November, following the 99‑percent progress noted by Rubio. The agreement, drafted over 18 months, covers tariffs, technology transfer, and defense cooperation.
The next step is a formal signing ceremony scheduled for November 5 in New Delhi, after which the U.S. Congress will vote on the trade bill.