Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that the India-US partnership is a force for global good after a joint meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin. The meeting took place on Friday after the conclusion of the '2+2' ministerial dialogue.
Blinken and Austin briefed PM Modi on their discussions in the '2+2' format, emphasizing the significance of the bilateral partnership in addressing global challenges.
In a post on X, Modi said, "Glad to receive @SecBlinken and @SecDef. The '2+2' Format is a key enabler for further strengthening the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Our shared belief in democracy, pluralism and the rule of law underpins our mutually beneficial cooperation in diverse sectors. The India-US partnership is truly a force for global good."
In a statement, the government said, "The two Secretaries briefed the Prime Minister on their discussions with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, in the '2+2' format."
During the joint meeting, Blinken and Austin highlighted progress in various areas of bilateral cooperation, encompassing defense, semiconductors, emerging technology, space, and health. This progress is a follow-up to Prime Minister Modi's state visit to the US in June 2023 and the subsequent meeting between the two leaders on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in New Delhi.
Prime Minister Modi expressed satisfaction with the deepening cooperation across various domains, emphasizing that the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership between India and the US is anchored in democracy, pluralism, and respect for the rule of law.
Additionally, the leaders exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, including ongoing developments in West Asia. The discussions reaffirmed the multifaceted nature of the India-US relationship and its relevance in addressing shared challenges on the global stage.
"They emphasised on the need for continued close coordination between India and the US on these issues," it said.
During the '2+2' dialogue, Prime Minister Modi conveyed warm greetings to US President Joe Biden and expressed anticipation for continued exchanges with him.
The comprehensive discussions during the dialogue involved Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and their US counterparts, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
The focus was on advancing the India-US global strategic partnership, reflecting the commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and addressing global challenges collaboratively.
(With Agency Inputs)
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