Modi appreciates US Defense Secretary's contribution to ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday appreciated outgoing US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter's contribution to bilateral ties.

Modi said this when Carter called on him here, according to External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Vikas Swarup

"Prime Minister appreciated the contribution made by Secretary Carter in strengthening the defence cooperation between India and the United States," Swarup told the media.

"Prime Minister recalled his successful visit to the United States in June this year. He reaffirmed India's commitment to a robust and strong bilateral strategic partnership with the US.

Carter briefed Modi on the progress in taking forward the decisions and understandings reached in June this year.

"They also exchanged views on regional issues and the developments in the Asia Pacific region," Swarup said.

Earlier on Thursday Carter held a meeting with Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, following which it was announced that US had designated India as its "Major Defence Partner".

--IANS

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