NEW DELHI: India and the U.S. decided to explore the possibility of giving greater market access to agri products and continue engagement on visa issues.
These issues were discussed during the Trade Policy Forum (TPF) meeting which was co-chaired by Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Michael Froman.
The U.S. also took note of India's interest in engaging on social security tantalization and agreed to review any information provided by India about developments in its social security regime.
"They decided to continue their engagement on visa issues, and the U.S. took note of India's interest in ensuring easier access for Indian professionals in the U.S.
"Both countries noted each others' requests and agreed to follow up on exploring the possibility of enhanced market access on identified agricultural products," a India-U.S. joint statement on the TPF said.
It said both the countries agreed to establish a new technical dialogue that will promote cooperation on plant and animal health, and food safety issues in a manner that facilitates the movement of agricultural goods between the two countries.
They also agreed to deepen bilateral engagement aimed at promoting bilateral investment across sectors.
Both the countries stressed on the importance of providing a transparent and predictable policy environment to help attract investments in manufacturing.
"In this regard, Minister Sitharaman and Ambassador Froman agreed to exchange information on stakeholder participation in the framing of trade and investment policies and procedures, and to discuss best practices," it said.
At several forums, India has raised its serious concerns with the U.S. authorities over visa related issues and discriminatory social security benefits to Indian professionals working in America.
New Delhi wants early conclusion of the Totalisation Agreement. Under this pact an expatriate in either country need not contribute to social security schemes of the host country.
India had also issues related with market access for agri products such as rice, mangoes, pomegranates and table grapes.
On IPR, Sitharaman and Froman acknowledged the paramount goal of ensuring the poorest populations in India and the U.S. have access to quality healthcare.
Both the sides committed to identifying ways in which trade and innovation policies can enhance access to quality health and affordable medicines, it added.
Also Read: India Expresses Concern Over Rising Tensions In Jerusalem
India Needs To Adopt New IPR Protection Norms: U.S.
Magazine : 
.jpg "Unlocking Potential Redefining Potential & Redefining Excellence")
