India, U.S. to work together on advanced defence equipment

DN Bureau

The United States and India look forward to working together on advanced defence equipment and technology at a level commensurate with that of the closest allies and partners of the U.S.

PM Modi meets US President Donald Trump
PM Modi meets US President Donald Trump


Washington DC: The United States and India look forward to working together on advanced defence equipment and technology at a level commensurate with that of the closest allies and partners of the U.S., a joint statement issued by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald, following delegation-level talks, said.

"Reflecting the partnership, the United States has offered for India's consideration the sale of Sea Guardian Unmanned Aerial Systems, which would enhance India's capabilities and promote shared security interests," the statement further said, in reference with the reports of Trump considering to clear the sale of 22 predator Guardian drones to India.

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Resolving to expand their maritime security cooperation, the leaders also announced their intention to build on the implementation of their "White Shipping" data sharing arrangement, which enhances collaboration on maritime domain awareness.

Trump welcomed Prime Minister Modi's strong support for the United States to join as an Observer in the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium.

Noting the importance of the upcoming MALABAR naval exercise, the leaders determined to expand their engagements on shared maritime objectives and to explore new exercises.

As global nonproliferation partners, the United States expressed strong support for India's early membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group, the Wassenaar Arrangement, and the Australia Group.

Also Read: India, U.S. vow to bring stability to Indo-Pacific region

Further, President Trump and Prime Minister Modi pledged to deepen defence and security cooperation, building on the United States' recognition of India as a Major Defence Partner.

Washington and New Delhi look forward to working together on advanced defence equipment and technology at a level commensurate with that of the closest allies and partners of the United States, the statement read.

President Trump reaffirmed the support of the United States for India's permanent membership on a reformed U.N. Security Council.


 










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