Modi-Obama Meet Will Deepen India-U.S. Strategic, Economic Ties: White House

WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama looks forward to welcoming Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 29-30 September, the White House announced, saying their talks will "expand and deepen the U.S-India strategic partnership."

"The two leaders will discuss a range of issues of mutual interest in order to expand and deepen the U.S-India strategic partnership," White House Press Secretary said in a statement on Modi's first visit to Washington since his landmark electoral victory in May.

"They will discuss ways to accelerate economic growth, bolster security cooperation, and collaborate in activities that bring long-term benefits to both countries and the world," he said.

"They will also focus on regional issues, including current developments in Afghanistan, Syria and Iraq, where India and the United States can work together with partners towards a positive outcome."

"The President looks forward to working with the Prime Minister to fulfil the promise of the U.S.-India strategic partnership for the benefit of both our citizens and the world," the White House statement.

The U.S. had shunned Modi for nearly a decade with the previous Bush administration revoking his visa in 2005 for his alleged role or inaction during the 2002 Gujarat riots as the state's chief minister.

The Obama administration was late in reaching out to Modi in the run up to India's parliamentary elections, but Obama was among the first leaders to greet him after his historic win and invite him to the White House.

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