<h1>IndiaUS bilateral ties: talks on trade, critical minerals and defence ahead of Washington visit; trade deal outcome pending</h1> India and the United States conducted high-level diplomatic consultations focused on accelerating negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement, coordinating on critical mineral supply chains, and enhancing defence cooperation. The diplomatic engagement was framed around an imminent ministerial meeting on critical minerals and a planned bilateral meeting between senior foreign ministers; negotiations have progressed but remain affected by recent imposition of substantial tariffs and disputed trade measures by the other side, which have delayed finalisation. Immigration policy differences and broader geopolitical disputes have also strained bilateral talks, leaving the trade deal outcome unresolved.