Will Obama tread on Pak, terror topics?

New Delhi, Nov 8: Following the talks and speeches concentrating on jobs, trade and business during his Mumbai stay, visiting US President Barack Obama is expected to tread more on the Pakistan and terrorism topics at New Delhi on Monday, Nov 8.

Obama is slated to hold formal talks with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at 11 am at the national capital. He will also be addressing both the houses of the Parliament, following which the two countries will issue a joint statement.

The heads of the countries are expected to discuss matters on bilateral ties and global issues of mutual concern. However, what India seems to be waiting for is a statement from Obama on Pakistan and terrorism, especially following the rather disappointing address during the 26/11 memorial service.

The American President also seemed to avoid making any direct statements on the burning topic at the Mumbai University programme despite being questioned on the terror emanating from Pakistan.

However, endorsing New Delhi's continual assertion of the need for Indo-Pak dialogue, Obama said that the two countries should discuss "less controversial issues building upto more controversial issues".

The only statement he made connecting Pakistan and terror was that the progress by Pakistan in fighting terrorism is not quick as "we would like".

Besides terrorism, issues like controversial H-1B visas fee hike, US' stand on outsourcing and future course of action on the Indo-US nuclear deal is expected to come up during the talks.

OneIndia News