Manmohan Singh arrives at White House to meet President Obama

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has arrived at the White House here to meet U.S. President Barack Obama.

Describing the U.S. as an 'important strategic partner', Dr. Singh earlier said that under President Barack Obama's regime, India has taken several steps to widen and deepen its bilateral partnership in diverse fields.

"The United States is one of India's most important trading partners, important provider of investment and technology support for India's development and we need the United States on our side as we move to give new added thrust to our development programs," said Dr. Singh.

"And, during the present visit, we will review the progress that has been made and also what further can be done to give added meaning and content to this partnership," he added.

Dr. Singh further said during his meeting with Obama, both sides would also review the international situation.

"We will also review the international situation particularly with reference to international economic situation and other important areas like South East Asia, Middle East and West Asia," he added.

Counter terrorism, civil nuclear cooperation, trade and investment are likely to figure during their talks at the Oval Office in the White House.

This is the third Obama-Singh summit meeting, the previous ones being held in 2009 and 2010. The meeting will highlight India's role in regional security and stability.

Following the meeting, the two leaders would issue a joint statement in a brief media interaction.