India, US discuss 'N' deal, terrorism

New Delhi, Aug 7 (UNI) India and the US today reviewed progress on the July 18, 2005, Nuclear agreement and resolved to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations besides discussing regional issues of mutual concern.

US Assistant Secretary of State Richard Boucher held discussions with Joint Secretary (Americas) in the External Affairs Ministry, S Jayashankar, as part of their regular consultations on the July 18, 2005, Joint Statement and the Separation Plan presented by India to US on March two during the visit of US President George Bush here.

''Joint Secretary (Americas) and Assistant Secretary Richard Boucher held their regular consultations. Their discussions included a review of the follow up action to the March two and July 18, 2005, Joint Statements,'' an Exteernal Affairs Ministry spokesman said.

The two sides also noted that considerable progress had been made on economic, trade, agriculture, energy, S&T and Defence cooperation areas outlined in the Joint Statement.

The two sides exchanged views on regional issues of mutual concern.

After a nearly three-hour meeting with Mr Jayashankar, Mr Boucher said the two sides had discussed joint efforts to fight terrorism.

They (the two sides) felt that terrorism should be fought in ''all places and all its forms,'' Mr Boucher told reporters.

Describing his meeting as ''very good,'' he said the entire gamut of bilateral relations was discussed.

He also had a meeting with Joint Secretary (Eurasia). and was scheduled to call on Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran.

Mr Boucher who arrived here on August 4 on a four-day visit, also held discussions on strengthening bilateral strategic partnership and counter-terrorism besides political and business leaders and civil society members on a wide range of issues.

The India visit is part of a trip that includes stops in the UAE, China, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan.

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