Heat on Pak as Trump, Modi pledge to fight terror together
PM IN AMERICA Bonhomie on display; no resolution on H1B, climate change
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump pushed Pakistan to ensure its territory was not used for attacks against other nations, a blunt indictment of Islamabad that signalled a new impetus in the two countries’ resolve to fight terrorism.
In another important nod to India’s concerns over China’s One Belt One Road project, Washington agreed that any infrastructure for regional connectivity must ensure “respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity”.
While there were no announcements of major deals, a joint statement confirmed the sale of naval drones to India that Washington has never sold to a non-Nato country, and which New Delhi can use to watch over China’s maritime moves.
In a first meeting that was closely watched for their personal chemistry, the two leaders appeared keen to show they got along, effusively praising each other and exchanging hugs in the White House Rose Garden before cameras.
Trump was also warm but his comments on trade betrayed some chill. Under pressure to expand US exports and create more jobs at home, he called for a trading relationship with India that was “fair and reciprocal”.
CONTINUED ON P 6 Unambiguous in blaming Pak for cross-border terror
Strong message to Pak that Trump administration takes issue seriously, but unclear what it would do if it doesn’t rein in terror outfits
Connectivity projects should ‘ensure respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity’
Two sides can find common ground against Chinese infra and maritime plans in Asia
Security cooperation to be deepened Continuity in military ties and defence business will probably grow in coming years Calls for increasing free and fair trade Trump promised US exports would expand, so will push for greater market access to bridge a $31 billion trade deficit
Silent on H-1B visa
India will have to engage with various stakeholders to clear misgivings about American job losses
Rational approach to climate policy, energy security needs
India needs to work to get US to keep its commitment to India’s renewable power goal