External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is scheduled to visit the United States from December 24 to 29, 2024. During this trip, he plans to engage with officials from both the outgoing Biden administration and the incoming Trump administration to discuss key bilateral, regional, and global issues.

While specific details of his meetings have not been disclosed, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that Mr. Jaishankar will chair a conference of Indian Consul Generals in the U.S.

This visit comes amid significant developments in India-U.S. relations, including the recent indictment of Indian billionaire Gautam Adani by U.S. authorities on charges related to a $265 million bribery scheme. The Adani Group has denied these allegations, stating they are unfounded.

Additionally, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the U.S. State Department of attempting to destabilize India in collaboration with investigative journalists and opposition figures. These accusations arise despite the strong bilateral ties between New Delhi and Washington.

In the defense sector, India and the U.S. have recently concluded agreements to enhance their partnership. Notably, India has agreed to procure 31 General Atomics MQ-9B remotely-piloted aircraft, which will bolster the intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities of India's armed forces.

Furthermore, both nations have signed the Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA), facilitating reciprocal priority support for defense-related goods and services.

Mr. Jaishankar's visit is expected to address these developments and explore avenues to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and the United States.