External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj today issued a joint press statement in Delhi with the United States Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. EAM Swaraj, while talking at the presser, said, “Happy to inform that our defence and strategic relations have deepened after PM’s US visit.” While talking about recent terror attacks, the minister said, “Recent attacks in Afghanistan are proof that safe havens and supporters of terrorism are active. Pakistan needs to act on this.” She further added, “President Trump’s policy on terrorism can only succeed when Pakistan takes action on terror groups.” Swaraj then went on to talk about the trilateral meeting to be held between India, USA, Afghanistan and said, “India, USA, Afghanistan trilateral meeting to be held in December.”
While talking about the topics discussed in the meeting with Rex Tillerson, she said, “We also discussed the important contribution of Indians working in the USA on H1B visa.” Swaraj then talked about the relationship of India with North Korea. She said, “Our trade with North Korea has reduced a lot and our embassy there is very small.” She added, “Told Secy Tillerson that some of your friendly nations must have an embassy there in North Korea for any possible communication.”
After Sushma Swaraj, US Secy of State Rex Tillerson took the stage and talked about the relationship that India and the US share, “India and USA are natural allies. Stand shoulder to shoulder against terror.” while talking about terrorism, he said, “Terrorist safe havens will not be tolerated.” Tillerson then went on to talk about the trilateral meeting and said, “India is crucial to USA-Afghanistan strategy, back India as a leader in the region.” He added, “Had a very open frank exchange with Pakistan leaders in Islamabad yesterday, conveyed to Pak the expectations we have.” While talking about working with Pakistan, Tillerson said, “We want to work with Pakistan in a positive way as we think this is in their interest in the longer term,” he added, “Too many terror groups find safe haven in Pakistan which is now threatening the stability of the Pak govt.”
EAM Sushma Swaraj with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. (Photo: ANI)
