U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio embarked on his inaugural official visit to India on Saturday, beginning with a significant religious stop: the Mother House of the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata, the congregation established by Mother Teresa.
Accompanied by his wife Jeanette, Rubio was welcomed at Kolkata's Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport by U.S. Ambassador Sergio Gor.
While visiting the Missionaries of Charity, the Secretary of State joined the nuns in prayer and discussed the humanitarian efforts of the congregation dedicated to aiding the most vulnerable.
Photos from the visit depict Rubio and his wife alongside nuns wearing the iconic white habits with blue stripes, standing before a portrait of Mother Teresa, as dozens of sisters watched and applauded from the convent balcony.
Rubio shared his experience on social media, emphasizing the enduring impact of the Albanian saint. "Mother Teresa left an incredible legacy of compassion and service. It was an honor to visit the Missionaries of Charity today to pay tribute to her legacy and witness the living example of Catholic faith in action."
Sister Marie Juan, who hosted the Secretary of State, informed reporters that Rubio "discussed aid for the homeless, terminally ill, and those affected by leprosy." She added, "He was happy to pray, and we were happy to have him with us."
The visit sparked debate in India regarding the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), which governs the acceptance of foreign funds by organizations like the congregation. Their license was revoked by the Indian government in December 2021 but was renewed in January 2022 following international criticism.
Rubio, the son of Cuban immigrants and a practicing Catholic, has consistently highlighted his faith throughout his public career.
The official tour will continue through May 26, covering Kolkata, Agra, Jaipur, and New Delhi, where Rubio will engage in bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar.
On the energy front, the Secretary of State declared before his departure that the United States aims to sell India "as much energy as they are willing to buy," referencing the global oil price crisis triggered by Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
The tour's highlight will be the Quad foreign ministers' meeting — comprising Australia, India, Japan, and the United States — scheduled for Tuesday in New Delhi. This assembly is viewed as a critical counterbalance to China's influence in the Indian Ocean.
Marco Rubio's Visit to India: Key Questions Answered
What was the purpose of Marco Rubio's visit to the Missionaries of Charity?
Marco Rubio visited the Missionaries of Charity to honor Mother Teresa's legacy of compassion and service, and to witness the continued humanitarian work of the congregation.
How did Rubio's visit relate to the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) in India?
The visit reignited discussions in India about the FCRA, which affects the receipt of foreign funds by organizations like the Missionaries of Charity, whose license had been previously revoked and then renewed.
What are some highlights of Rubio's official tour in India?
Rubio's tour includes stops in Kolkata, Agra, Jaipur, and New Delhi, with significant engagements such as meetings with India's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, and participation in the Quad foreign ministers' meeting.