NSA Narayanan meets US counterpart Gen. Jones in Washington

Washington, Oct. 31 (ANI): Ahead of Prime Minister Manmohan Sngh's Washington visit in November, National Security Adviser M K Narayanan met with his US counterpart General James Jones here to discuss a wide range of issues, including security cooperation to deepen the strategic partnership.

According to an official US statement, among the topics for discussion were the US government's strategy in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Both countries also shared commitment to combat terrorism, and the post-election situation in Iran.

Narayanan and General Jones also talked about energy and developing closer economic and trade links as well as defence ties.

General Jones outlined President Barack Obama's desire to move quickly in the months ahead to make tangible progress on a range of issues that affect future ties.

Narayanan is also understood to have met other officials of the Obama administration handling intelligence and national security matters, besides terrorism.

Spokesman of the National Security Council Mike Hammer said, the focus of the meeting of National Security Advisors was certainly to make excellent preparations for a successful State visit by the Indian leader.

Singh is scheduled to meet Obama in the White House on November 24, the first state visit of the new US administration. (ANI)