AUGUST 19, 2019
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday had a telephonic conversation with United States President Donald Trump during which he made an indirect reference to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s “extreme rhetoric against India”. PM Modi had a 30-minute conversation with Donald Trump which also covered bilateral and regional matters.
Without naming Pakistan, PM Narendra Modi said that extreme rhetoric and incitement to anti-India violence by “certain leaders” in the region was not conducive to peace.
The conversation was marked by the “warmth and cordiality” which characterises the relations between the two leaders, a release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) stated.
The development has happened a few days after Pakistan approached the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) against India’s decision to abrogate provision of Article 370 that gave a special status to Jammu and Kashmir.
PM Modi highlighted the importance of creating an environment free from terror and violence and eschewing cross-border terrorism without exception.
Donald Trump also sought a reduction of tension between India and Pakistan, the White House said on Monday. During the talks, which lasted for 30 minutes, the two leaders discussed regional developments and the ways to “strengthen US-India economic ties through increased trade”, it said.
“The President conveyed the importance of reducing tensions between India and Pakistan and maintaining peace in the region,” the White House said.
Recalling his meeting and bilateral discussions in Osaka on the sidelines of G-20 summit in June, PM Narendra Modi expressed hope that the commerce minister of India and the US trade representative would meet at an early date to discuss bilateral trade prospects for mutual benefit.
PM Narendra Modi also reiterated India’s “commitment to cooperate with anyone who followed this path, in fighting poverty, illiteracy, and disease”.
Recalling that August 19 marked the 100 years of the Independence of Afghanistan, PM Modi reiterated India’s longstanding and unwavering commitment to work for a united, secure, democratic and truly independent Afghanistan.
The prime minister also stated that he appreciated remaining in regular touch with President Donald Trump.
President Trump and Prime Minister Modi “look forward to meeting again soon”, the White House said.
Courtesy/Source: India Today
