Sun Jan 19 05:44:44 UTC 2025: ## Jaishankar’s Washington Trip: Navigating a New Global Order Under Trump
**Washington, D.C., January 19, 2025** – India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is embarking on a crucial visit to Washington D.C. to navigate the evolving global landscape under the newly inaugurated President Donald Trump. Jaishankar has described the Trump administration as potentially ushering in a new era focused on American interests above global cooperation, posing significant challenges to the existing rules-based international order.
This visit, Jaishankar’s third to the U.S. in six months, aims to establish a strong working relationship with the Trump administration. Key priorities include securing an early meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump, possibly in Paris next month or during a subsequent U.S. visit by Modi. This follows the precedent set in 2017, when Modi met Trump shortly after his first inauguration.
Another key objective is scheduling a Quad summit in India later this year. While the confirmation of Secretary of State nominee Marco Rubio is pending, Jaishankar will discuss dates with his Quad counterparts (Australia, Japan) who are expected in Washington for Trump’s inauguration. The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump is considering early visits to both China and India, adding further urgency to these diplomatic efforts. The appointment of a new U.S. Ambassador to India will also be a critical factor, following Eric Garcetti’s departure.
The visit will take place against a backdrop of uncertainty surrounding Trump’s foreign policy. While he employed strong anti-China rhetoric during his campaign, he has recently engaged in overtures to President Xi Jinping, including a phone call described as “very good” and an invitation to the inauguration. This, along with the visit of Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, raises questions about Trump’s approach to trade relations with China and the potential impact on India, particularly concerning Trump’s previous threats of reciprocal tariffs on Indian products.
Furthermore, Jaishankar’s team will closely monitor Trump’s planned executive orders, especially those concerning immigration. The potential impact on the approximately 17,940 Indian nationals facing deportation orders is a significant concern.
Finally, meetings with key Trump advisors, including Elon Musk, will focus on strengthening economic ties. Musk, after canceling a planned India visit last year, recently expressed optimism about US-India relations, advocating for reduced trade barriers. Jaishankar’s visit promises to be pivotal in shaping the India-U.S. relationship under the new Trump administration.
First Piper 