Johnson Cherian.
President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed the progress in a series of bilateral initiatives kicked off during the latter’s bilateral visit to the U.S capital in the last week of June but announced only today, during a call on the occasion of India’s 70th independence. Crude and natural gas imports to India from the U.S is a new thrust area of bilateral cooperation, and the first shipment of American crude for India will leave from Texas this week.
“The leaders resolved to enhance peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific region by establishing a new 2-by-2 ministerial dialogue that will elevate their strategic consultations,” a readout issued by the White House after the call said on Tuesday. The 2-by-2 ministerial dialogue, involving defence and foreign ministers was announced during Mr. Modi’s visits. The dates and venue are not final yet. The Trump administration has been ratcheting up pressure on China to weigh down more heavily on North Korea to stop its nuclear plans. The administration has also announced this week, a review of Chinese practices that are harmful to American high tech industries. The Trump administration has raised concerns about India’s IPR regime also earlier.
The White House said Mr. Trump called Mr. Modi to “congratulate the 1.2 billion citizens of India, who will celebrate 70 years of freedom and independence on August 15.” “As the leaders of two of the world’s largest and fastest-growing major economies, President Trump and Prime Minister Modi looked forward to the Global Entrepreneurship Summit in India this November. President Trump has asked Advisor to the President Ivanka Trump to lead the United States summit delegation.” The Summit is taking place in Hyderabad, and Ms. Trump’s participation was announced during Mr. Modi’s visit.
“President Trump further welcomed the first ever shipment of American crude oil to India, which will occur from Texas this month, pledging that the United States would continue to be a reliable, long-term supplier of energy,” the statement said. Energy exports is a key area of economic expansion that Mr. Trump has announced ever since he assumed power.
“Prime Minister Modi thanked President Trump for his strong leadership uniting the world against the North Korean menace,” the White House said.
