'Chalein Saath Saath', U.S. Tells India

"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 toward a positive outcome," Earnest said.

Obama looks forward to working with Modi "to fulfill the promise of the U.S.-India strategic partnership for the benefit of both our citizens and the world", he said.

Earlier, at the White House briefing, when asked about the most important narrative focus of the Obama administration, he said it was hard to identify just one as the two governments interacted on so many issues.

"Whether it's security cooperation or economic cooperation, even agreements related to reducing the causes of climate change, that we're confident that we can advance the ball down the field by working closely

with our counterparts in India," he added.

Since it would be the first meeting between the two leaders, Earnest said: "This will be an important opportunity for them to spend some time talking about the relationship between our two countries."

The U.S. certainly valued its strong relationship with India "and the president wants to make sure that we continue that strong relationship between our two countries", he said.

State Department spokesperson Jen Psaki said discussions with Modi would cover the full range of bilateral issues, such as partnering with India on its economic goals and objectives, including its priorities in infrastructure, manufacturing, and skills.

They will also discuss how U.S. can continue efforts to removing impediments to expanding bilateral trade to $500 billion annually.

Other topics will include India's energy security, including the use of clean energy and clean technology and how the U.S. can partner with Modi on his domestic objectives for India, including his focus on sustainable development for all Indians, sanitation and security and defence.

Vice President Joe Biden and Secretary of State John Kerry, who will participate in the summit will later host a lunch at the U.S. State Department with members of Congress, the private sector, and the Indian American diaspora.

READ MORE: World Hunger Falls But 805 Mn Still Chronically Under-Nourished: FAO

Will Deliver On Promises, Build India Of Your Dreams: Modi To Indians Abroad