India-US 2+2 dialogue: Rajnath Singh calls for 'deepening defence cooperation'

Ahead of 2+2 ministerial dialogue of Indian ministers with ir US counterparts, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of Defence Mark Esper on Monday at South Block in New Delhi. After meeting, Singh confidently asserted that today's discussion would bolster India-US defence relations and mutual cooperation. He also added that talks today were aimed at deepening defence cooperation in a wide range of areas. 

Along with US Defence Secretary, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also arrived in national capital for third edition of ministerial dialogue which is slated to be held on October 27. US leaders were welcomed by Indian officials as per protocol. Separately, Esper was accorded Guard of Hour at South Block and was received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, Army Chief General Maj Mukund Naravane, IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria and Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh were also present. 

READ | Mike Pompeo Arrives In India For 2+2 Dialogue, Mark Esper Accorded Guard Of Hour

Focus on cross-cutting bilateral issues

third India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue will focus on cross-cutting bilateral issues of mutual interest and two sides will also exchange views on regional and international issues. Pompeo and Esper will also meet National Security Adviser Ajit Doval on sidelines of ministerial dialogue and re will be a joint call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

READ | India-US 2+2 Dialogue To Focus On Cross-cutting Bilateral, International Issues: MEA

India and United States are expected to sign Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) for geo-spatial cooperation during 2+2 ministerial dialogue in New Delhi on October 26-27 after y agreed to expedite work of deal earlier this year. signing of BECA will be a significant landmark in US-India strategic cooperation as it allows India to use global geospatial maps of US for accuracy of stand-off weapons like cruise and ballistic missiles.

READ | India To Hold Third Edition Of 2+2 Dialogue With US On Oct 27 In Delhi: MEA