Press Releases 2009

U.S. EMBASSY STATEMENT
For immediate release

National Security Advisor James L. Jones Visit to India

June 26, 2009

NEW DELHI -- National Security Advisor (NSA) General James L. Jones visited India June 25-26 at the invitation of India's National Security Advisor M.K. Narayanan. Gen. Jones' visit is part of an ongoing effort by the Obama Administration to further strengthen and deepen the key U.S. - India partnership.

During his visit to India, NSA Jones met with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Defense Minister A.K. Antony, Foreign Secretary S. Menon and Indian parliamentarians. He also held intensive discussions with National Security Advisor M.K. Narayanan. These consultations covered a broad range of bilateral and regional issues affecting our common interests. Among the topics for discussion were the U.S. government's strategy in Afghanistan and Pakistan, our shared commitment to combat terrorism, and the post-election situation in Iran. They also talked about energy and developing closer economic and trade links as well as defense ties. Gen. Jones outlined President Obama's desire to move quickly in the months ahead to make tangible progress on a range of issues that affect our nations' futures.

Gen. Jones conveyed President Obama's invitation to Prime Minister Singh to visit the White House this fall. The upcoming visit will be an opportunity to continue the discussion that the two leaders held during the G-20 meeting in London, focusing on the global economic situation, trade, energy and climate change, and regional security issues.

General Jones said: "I enjoyed a very productive visit to India. President Obama views the U.S. - India relationship to be of foremost importance in advancing our common interests. In addition to broadening our partnership on a variety of global and bilateral issues, we will work together closely on regional security matters. This is an area in which India is playing an important role. I trust that we will develop an even closer bond between the American and Indian people and build a more prosperous and secure future."