India, U.S. to work together on advanced defence equipment

The United States and India look forward to working together on advanced defence equipment and technology at a level commensurate with that of the closest allies and partners of the U.S., a joint statement issued by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald, following delegation-level talks, said.

"Reflecting the partnership, the United States has offered for India's consideration the sale of Sea Guardian Unmanned Aerial Systems, which would enhance India's capabilities and promote shared security interests," the statement further said, in reference with the reports of Trump considering to clear the sale of 22 predator Guardian drones to India.

Resolving to expand their maritime security cooperation, the leaders also announced their intention to build on the implementation of their "White Shipping" data sharing arrangement, which enhances collaboration on maritime domain awareness.

Trump welcomed Prime Minister Modi's strong support for the United States to join as an Observer in the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium.

Noting the importance of the upcoming MALABAR naval exercise, the leaders determined to expand their engagements on shared maritime objectives and to explore new exercises.

As global nonproliferation partners, the United States expressed strong support for India's early membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group, the Wassenaar Arrangement, and the Australia Group.

Further, President Trump and Prime Minister Modi pledged to deepen defence and security cooperation, building on the United States' recognition of India as a Major Defence Partner.

Washington and New Delhi look forward to working together on advanced defence equipment and technology at a level commensurate with that of the closest allies and partners of the United States, the statement read.

President Trump reaffirmed the support of the United States for India's permanent membership on a reformed U.N. Security Council.

Earlier, in their joint press statement, Trump stressed on eliminating and destroying radical Islamic terrorism and emphasised on how both nations - the U.S. and India - are deeply affected by the malaise of terrorism.

"Both nations have been struck by the evils of terrorism and are determined to destroy it, especially the radical Islamic terrorism. We will be enhancing the military cooperation and next month, will join the Japan Navy to take part in the largest Maritime exercise in the vast Indian Ocean. I appreciate India's efforts in Afghanistan," Trump said.

Trump said it was an honour to have invited and hosted Prime Minister Modi at the White House.

"The relationship between the U.S. and India has never looked brighter. It's a great honour to welcome the leader of the world's largest democracy to the White House. I have always admired India and its people and the rich cultural heritage and traditions. This summer India will celebrate the 70th anniversary of their Independence and on behalf of the U.S., I want to congratulate the Indians on this magnificent milestone," he said.

Prime Minister Modi laid special emphasis on the growing camaraderie between India and the United States even as he addressed the media jointly with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House here on Monday.

Praising the U.S. as a valued partner in India's flagship programmes, Prime Minister Modi asserted that eliminating safe havens of terror and bring stability to Afghanistan was the major priority of both nations.

Further citing that India's interest lies in a strong America, Prime Minister Modi said, "My visit and our talks will mark a very important page in the history of cooperation and collaboration between the two nations. My vision of 'New India' and President Trump's vision of 'Make America Great Again' shows convergence of ideas that will open up new avenues for people of both countries."

Prime Minister Modi, prior to this, sat down for delegation-level talks with Trump in the Cabinet Room at the White House.

During the delegation-level meeting, the two leaders touched upon various topics ranging from purchase of military equipment to the bilateral relations between the two nations.

Trump struck upon the topic of purchase of military equipment, in reference to the recent F16 joint production deal.

"Thank you for ordering equipment from the U.S.. No one makes military equipment like the U.S.," he said.

Trump extended a warm welcome to Prime Minister Modi even as he, along with First Lady Melania, received him at the White House earlier in the day.

Heaping praises on Prime Minister Modi, Trump said that he had been reading a lot about him and that he would want to congratulate him for the exemplary leadership he has shown, primarily, economically.

Prime Minister Modi, while thanking Trump for the warm welcome rendered to him, said the kind of welcome he was given, it was a welcome to the 125 crore people of India.

-ANI