Washington: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump spoke together on fighting terrorism and improving trade ties after their first meeting at the White House, which was marked by warmth and bonhomie between the two leaders.
The fight against terrorism is our main priority, Modi told the media on Monday after talks with the US president. "We talked about terrorism, extremism and radicalisation and agreed to cooperate on this. Fight against terrorism and their safe havens is an important part of our cooperation," he said.
The US president called for the removal of "barriers" for the export of US goods into Indian markets saying he is keen to work towards creating a fair and reciprocal trading relationship.
Referring to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) reform to be implemented across India starting next month, Trump said it was "the largest tax overhaul in your country's history".
"The security partnership between the US and India is incredibly important. Both our nations have been struck by the evils of terrorism and we are both determined to destroy terrorist organisations and the radical ideology that drives them. We will destroy radical Islamic terrorism," Trump said.
Both the leaders agreed to continue strengthening coordination for ensuring peace and stability in
Afghanistan as they expressed concern over rising instability in the war-torn country caused by terrorism.
Modi extended a warm invitation to President Trump and his family to visit India. "I would like to invite you to India, along with your family. And I hope that you will give me the opportunity to welcome you and host you in India," he said.
The meeting was noted for the bonhomie between the two leaders. The US president and First Lady Melania Trump greeted Modi at the steps when the Indian PM arrived at the White House. Throughout the interactions both leaders spoke glowingly if each other, and then at the joint media briefing sealed their friendship with a series of hugs and handshakes.
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