From strengthening Indo-US ties to stern message to Pakistan: Key takeaways from Modi and Trump meet

In the US, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with President Donald Trump during which the two leaders vowed to strengthen co- operation on terror. India and the US also urged Pakistan to ensure that its territory is not used to launch cross-border terror strikes.

Trump said he enjoyed his 'very productive conversation' with Modi, saying the "the future of our partnership has never looked brighter. India and the United States will always be tied together in friendship and respect."

Here are the key takeaways from PM Modi and Trump meet

1) Strengthening Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump agreed to strengthen the Indo-US economic partnership in a way that results in a win-win for the two major economies, while amicably working on resolving differences.

"On the economic side, the two sides had very productive discussions. The economic changes in both countries are creating new demands and once you have the high-level comfort between India and the US, the other partner is well placed to meet those demands," Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar told reporters after Modi held his maiden meeting with Trump here at the White House.​

2) Stern message to Pakistan

India and the US vowed to strengthen cooperation against terror outfits like Jaish-e- Mohammad, Lashkar-e-Taiba and D-Company, while urging Pakistan to ensure that its soil is not used for terror strikes against other nations.

In a joint statement released after talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump, the two nations also called on Islamabad to 'expeditiously bring to justice the perpetrators of the 26/11 Mumbai, Pathankot, and other cross-border terrorist attacks perpetrated by Pakistan- based groups.'

The two sides also agreed to have a new consultation mechanism on domestic and international terrorist designations and listing proposals.

FULL TEXT: PM Modi and Prez Trump say eliminating terrorism among top priorities 

3) Eliminating terrorism

"Eliminating terrorism is among the topmost priorities for us," Modi said in his joint statement with the US president at the White House Rose Garden.

Trump said both nations are "determined" to destroy terrorist organisations and the radical ideology that drives them.

"We talked about terrorism, extremism and radicalisation and agreed to cooperate on this. Fighting terrorism and doing away with the safe shelters, sanctuaries, and safe havens will be an important part of our cooperation," he said.

4) Trade, Economy and GST

Referring to Goods and Service Tax, President Trump said that in just two weeks, you (India) will begin to implement the largest tax overhaul in your country’s history -- we’re doing that also, by the way -- creating great new opportunities for your citizens. "You have a big vision for improving infrastructure, and you are fighting government corruption, which is always a grave threat to democracy."

Together, our countries can help chart an optimistic path into the future, one that unleashes the power of new technology, new infrastructure, and the enthusiasm and excitement of very hardworking and very dynamic people.

Trump also said that he look forward to working with Modi to create jobs to grow our economies, and to create a trading relationship that is fair and reciprocal. "It is important that barriers be removed to the export of US goods into your markets, and that we reduce our trade deficit with your country." he said

5) Designating Syed Salahuddin as global terrorist

The US declared Syed Salahuddin, the chief of Kashmiri militant outfit Hizbul Mujahideen, as a "global terrorist", dealing a major blow to Pakistan just before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first meeting with President Donald Trump.

In a notification, the State Department said Salahuddin, who hails from Kashmir and is based in Pakistan for the last 28 years, "has committed, or poses a significant risk of committing, acts of terrorism."

The US decision, which was welcomed by India, marks a severe blow to Pakistan which has been projecting him as a "freedom fighter".

6) Sale of Guardian drones to India

The US has cleared the sale of predator Guardian drones to India, as the two countries pledged to deepen their defence and security cooperation.

The US and India look forward to working together on advanced defence equipment and technology at a level commensurate with that of America's closest allies and partners, said a joint statement issued after the India US Summit at the White House.

"Reflecting the partnership, the US has offered for India's consideration the sale of Sea Guardian Unmanned Aerial Systems, which would enhance India's capabilities and promote shared security interests," the joint statement said.

7) On Afghanistan

The leaders expressed concern over the situation in Afghanistan. "I also thank the Indian people for their contributions to the effort in Afghanistan," said Trump.

Prime Minister Modi said that both India and America have played an important role in rebuilding Afghanistan and ensuring its security. "In order to attain our objectives for peace and stability in Afghanistan, we will maintain close consultation and communication with the US to enhance coordination between our two nations," he said.

8) On North Korea

President Trump also thanked India for joining us in applying new sanctions against the North Korean regime.

Trump called for the threat posed by North Korea's nuclear and ballistic programs to be 'rapidly' tackled, and thanked Modi for 'joining us in applying new sanctions against Pyongyang.'

"The North Korean regime is causing tremendous problems and is something that has to be dealt with, and probably dealt with rapidly," Trump said.

9) With hugs and praise, Modi and Trump strike rapport​

The two leaders heaped praise on each other, voiced appreciation for each other's leadership and embraced more than once at the White House. They underlined the the close ties between their countries, with Trump saying India has a 'true friend' in the White House.

Trump said the friendship between the United States and India is built on shared values, "including our shared commitment to democracy."

Modi termed his talks with Trump, the first between the two leaders, an 'important page in the history of India-US relationship'.

Modi on his part said he deeply appreciates Trump's strong commitment to the enhancement of bilateral relations.

10) Invitation to Donald Trump, daughter Ivanka Trump to visit India

Modi extended a warm invitation to President Donald Trump and his family to visit India.

"I would like to invite you to India, along with your family. And I hope that you will give me the opportunity to welcome you and host you in India," Modi said in his remarks, standing along side Trump at the White House's Rose Garden.

Modi also specially invited Trump's daughter Ivanka to lead the US delegation to the Global Entrepreneurship Summit in India later this year.

" And I believe she has accepted," Trump said.

Thank you, Prime Minister Modi, for inviting me to lead the U.S. delegation to the Global Entrepreneurship Summit in India this fall. pic.twitter.com/ZNwmTTnGYD

— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) June 27, 2017