Terrorism, nuclear security to be a priority in talks with India: Clinton

Washington, June 3 (ANI): United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on Thursday said in an opening statement, ahead of the first U.S-India strategic dialogue, that terrorism and nuclear security would be a priority consideration during the deliberations.

She also said that U.S. acknowledges India has an important role to play in Afghanistan region.

Clinton said: "Security is a top priority. We will discuss our continued partnership in defence."

Ms. Clinton also said India has an important role to play.

"India has an important role to play in Afghanistan. India's contribution of 1.3 billion dollars in Afghanistan has been positive and significant," the U.S. Secretary stated.

Speaking further on the U.S.- India ties and their role in Afghanistan, Ms. Clinton said:India, US have a stake in a stable Afghanistan."

"We must address doubts that remain on both sides. There should be attestation to commitment to our relationship," Ms. Clinton further added.

Clinton also said that India holds a special place for the United States and it does not see India in terms of Afghanistan and Pakistan.

She expressed her hope that the dialogue being held in the Washington D.C. would be an important step forward in the U.S-India partnership.

Calling India "a partner of the U.S." Ms. Clinton said: "the dialogue is an important step in our partnership."

On India's possible role in the reformation of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), Ms. Clinton said: "India's points will be considered in reforming UNSC."

Acknowledging India's economic progress in the times of global slowdown, Ms. Clinton said: "India's economic progress has been remarkable," and added that the United States urges India to ease caps on investment markets.

She also said the two sides would also discuss climate change.

Meanwhile, Indian External Affairs minister S.M.Krishna said: "We are committed to work with the international community to find solution to the pressing problems of the world."

"We both have an abiding interest in the global order.........and in the maintenance of peace," he added.

India and the United States are holding their first strategic dialogue today in Washington.

Krishna is expected to meet President Barack Obama later in the day. (ANI)