In the realm of diplomatic discourse, the US Deputy Secretary of State, Richard Verma, engaged in high-level discussions with esteemed Indian ministers and officials in New Delhi. The focal point of these deliberations was the advancement of the US-India global strategic partnership, with a specific emphasis on fostering a liberated and expansive Indo-Pacific region, as conveyed by Verma’s spokesperson.

Verma, holding the distinguished position of Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, stands as the preeminent Indian American within the State Department. The former US Ambassador to India embarked on an official sojourn to India from February 19 to 21.

During his stay, Verma convened with the likes of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra, Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane, and Deputy National Security Advisor Vikram Misri in New Delhi, elucidated State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller on Thursday.

The discourse during Verma’s meetings delved into avenues for fortifying the cooperative efforts between the United States and India, with a keen focus on fostering robust people-to-people connections. The overarching objective remained the assurance of a liberated, expansive, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, as expounded by Miller.

Furthermore, Verma engaged in a dialogue with Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, where the contours of expanding trade and economic ties between the US and India were thoroughly explored. The discussions with Indian officials underscored the manifold advantages of a close partnership in addressing global challenges, Miller emphasized.

Verma’s official visit spans six days, encompassing India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives until Friday. The primary purpose is to bolster bilateral ties with these nations, reaffirming the enduring commitment of the United States to fostering a region that is not only free, open, and secure but also prosperous.