India, US reaffirm commitment to deepen bilateral defence ties

New Delhi: Union Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar and U.S. Defence Secretary Ashton Carter have reaffirmed their commitment to expand and deepen the bilateral defence relationship between both countries.

Besides discussing the India-U.S. defence relationship and the broader strategic partnership between both sides, the duo also reviewed the existing and emerging regional security dynamics.

The 2015 framework for the India-US defence relationship was signed between the two countries during Carter's visit. The new framework builds upon the previous framework and successes to guide the

bilateral defence and strategic partnership for the next ten years.

The 2015 framework agreement provides avenues for high-level strategic discussions, continued exchanges between the armed forces of both countries and strengthening of defence capabilities.

The framework also recognizes the transformative nature of the Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI).

India and the United States have finalized two project agreements for joint development of Mobile Electric Hybrid Power Sources and the Next Generation Protective Ensembles.

Building on the areas of agreement signed during U.S. President Barack Obama's visit to India in January this year, Parrikar and Carter agreed to expedite discussions to take forward cooperation on jet engines, aircraft carrier design and construction, and other areas.

They also agreed to pursue co-development and co-production projects that will offer tangible opportunities for American defence industries to build defence partnership with the Indian industries, including manufacturing under the 'Make in India' initiative.

Parrikar and Carter also agreed to continue their efforts to enhance bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest, such as maritime security and knowledge partnership in the field of defence.

The visiting Defence Secretary thanked Parrikar for the help extended in the search for the U.S. helicopter, which went missing during the relief operations in Nepal.

Parrikar also accepted Carter's invitation to visit U.S. for the next meeting.