Tillerson, Modi vow to step up efforts to combat terrorism

US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Wednesday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his first official visit to South Asia, as the two countries look to further strengthen Indo-US strategic partnership in key areas.

In his meeting, PM Modi and Tillerson affirmed that a strengthened India-US partnership is not just of mutual benefit to both countries, but has significant positive impact on the prospects for regional and global stability and prosperity.

Also, PM Modi shared the resolve expressed by Tillerson on taking further steps in the direction of accelerating and strengthening the content, pace and scope of the bilateral engagement.

In the context of President Trump's new South Asia Policy, PM noted the commonality in the objectives of eradicating terrorism, terrorist infrastructure, safe havens, and support, while bringing peace and stability to Afghanistan.

They further discussed stepping up effective cooperation to combat terrorism in all its forms and promoting regional stability and security.

Tillerson, is the second high-ranking official of the Trump administration to visit India in the last two months. US Defence Secretary James Mattis visited India last month.

Earlier in the day, Tillerson met Sushma Swaraj and backed India's emergence as a "leading power" and promised to provide the "best technology" for its military modernisation.

"US backs India's emergence as a leading power and will continue to help Indian capabilities in providing security for the region. We are ready to provide the best technology for India's military modernisation," said US secretary of state Rex Tillerson in a joint statement with external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj.

Highlighting the strengthening relationship between the two countries, the top American diplomat said that "India and USA are natural allies, we stand shoulder to shoulder against terror."

OneIndia News