New Delhi [India], May 6 (ANI): United States Ambassador to India Sergio Gor on Wednesday expressed his enthusiasm regarding the upcoming visit of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, asserting that Washington places immense value on its 'growing partnership' with New Delhi and remains committed to further strengthening bilateral ties.

In a post on the social media platform X, the US Ambassador referred to Rubio as a 'good friend' while highlighting the strategic weight the United States assigns to its relationship with India.

https://x.com/USAmbIndia/status/2051926070023082384?s=20

'Looking forward to welcoming my good friend Secretary Rubio to India! The United States deeply values our growing partnership with India, and we are excited to build even stronger ties that will benefit both our nations and the world. See you soon, Mr Secretary!' Gor shared.

This diplomatic outreach precedes a series of significant bilateral and multilateral engagements. Rubio is slated to arrive in India this month, marking his first official visit to the country since taking charge as the US Secretary of State.

A primary focus of the mission is expected to be his participation in a ministerial-level Quad meeting, which India is proposed to host.

In a recent interview with the nation's primary 24-hour public service broadcaster, the US Ambassador confirmed that preparations for the Quad dialogue are in full swing.

He noted that the Secretary is eager to experience the country's diversity, stating, 'We're looking forward to hosting a ministerial-level Quad meeting in India. This will be the Secretary's first visit to the country, and he is keen to visit not just Delhi but other places as well. India is vitally important to us and an incredible partner. The President also shares a strong relationship with your Prime Minister.'

Describing the current trajectory of the partnership as being on an 'incredible footing', Gor hinted at significant breakthroughs on the horizon.

Following a recent visit to Washington for consultations with senior members of the American administration, the envoy suggested that 'big-ticket items' concerning bilateral cooperation are likely to be unveiled in the near future.

'I just came back from Washington, where I met with the entire cabinet, so we do have some big-ticket items that will be announced over the next few days, over the next few weeks,' he remarked.

The Ambassador also touched upon the personal rapport between the top leadership of both countries, highlighting the frequent nature of their communication.

He observed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump have engaged in multiple discussions this year, pointing out that 'they've actually spoken several more times this year. Not every conversation obviously becomes public. But they did just get off the phone in the last hour.' (ANI)