India-US discuss menace of cross-border terrorism; James Mattis says 'there can be no safe havens'

US Defence Secretary James Mattis who is on a two-day India visited, on Tuesday held bilateral talks with Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the national capital, and said that there can be no safe havens for terrorists.

Sitharaman and Mattis discussed the situation in the neighborhood and menace of cross-border terrorism in depth.

"Our two countries recognise the threat that global terrorism poses to people throughout the world. There can be no tolerance of terrorists safe heavens," Jim Mattis said in a joint statement.

"As a global leader, India and US resolve to work together to eradicate this scourge," he added.

Stating that the US values India's invaluable contribution to Afghanistan, Mattis said, "We welcome further efforts to promote democracy, safety, and security in Afghanistan."

"India-US share strong and vibrant strategic partnership as world's largest democracies also share fundamental values and interests," he said.

Mattis also appreciated India's leadership in the Indian Ocean and sought to work together to build a resilient regional architecture.

Mattis is the first cabinet rank official to visit India under the Donald Trump administration.

Earlier in the day, Mattis laid a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate and inspected tri-service guard of honour at the South Block lawns.