James Mattis, Nirmala Sitharaman hold talks on defence ties
26 September, New Delhi
Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today said, cooperation in the defence sector between India and the US has grown significantly in recent years and has emerged as a key pillar of the strategic partnership.
Addressing a joint press conference with visiting US Secretary of Defence James Mattis after holding delegation level talks in New Delhi, Ms Sitharaman said, the US is now a leading supplier of the state-of-the-art defence equipment to India.
She appreciated James Mattis’ willingness to share further cutting-edge platforms which would enhance India’s defence preparedness to meet current and emerging threats.
Ms Sitharaman said, during the talks, the situation in the neighbourhood and growing menace of cross-border terrorism were discussed in depth.
The Defence Minister further said, they discussed the ways to strengthen their cooperation as well as with the Government of Afghanistan in pursuit of common objective of a peaceful, democratic, stable and prosperous Afghanistan.
Both sides also discussed the issues relating to maritime security in the Indian Ocean and the broader Asia-Pacific Region as well as regional connectivity issues. She said, India supports the freedom of navigation, over-flight and unimpeded lawful commerce.
She said that disputes should be resolved through peaceful means and in accordance with the universally recognized principles of international law.
US Defence Secretary James Mattis said, India and the US have suffered due to the menace of terrorism and they have recognised its global threat.
He said, a high degree of team work is needed to wipe out the menace. He said there can be no tolerance to terrorism safe havens. He also welcomed India’s contribution in war-torn Afghanistan.
Mattis appreciated India’s efforts to put pressure on North Korea. He said his country will continue to maintain diplomatic and economic pressure on North Korea. He also appreciated India’s leadership in Indian ocean.