US will not sacrifice India ties for Pakistan relations: Rubio

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has sought to reassure India that any enhancement of American ties with Pakistan will not undermine the strategic partnership between New Delhi and Washington. Addressing concerns during his visit to India, Rubio stated that the US fully understands New Delhi's security apprehensions and remains committed to its relationship with India. The statement appears designed to allay potential Indian anxieties about potential shifts in US diplomatic priorities in South Asia. Rubio acknowledged India's legitimate concerns regarding terrorism emanating from the region and reiterated the Biden administration's commitment to addressing these security challenges. The US State Department chief also indicated willingness to play a constructive role in reducing India-Pakistan tensions and preventing potential conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. The visit underscores the US approach of balancing its diplomatic engagements across South Asia while prioritizing its strategic partnership with India, which Washington views as a key counterweight in the Indo-Pacific region.