Washington, Aug 30: India and the US signed a military logistics agreement on Monday that will enable the militaries of both the countries to use each other's land, air and naval bases for repair and resupply, a step toward building defence ties.
Welcoming the signing of the bilateral 'Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement' (LEMOA), Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar and US Defence Secretary Ashton Carter said the pact will facilitate opportunities for "practical engagement and exchange".
"The US has agreed to elevate defence trade and technology sharing with India to a level commensurate with its closest allies and partners," said a joint statement after the pact was signed.
According to the statement, the defence ties between the two countries is based on their "shared values and interests," and their "abiding commitment to global peace and security."
The agreement will allow the Indian and US navies to have an easier time supporting each other in joint operations and exercises and when providing humanitarian assistance, Mr Parrikar said.
Welcoming India's membership in the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), Mr Carter reaffirmed US support for India's membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
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Manohar Parrikar's visit to Washington this week marks the sixth interaction between the two top defence officials.
Ashton Carter has made closer military ties with India a priority, and established a special unit within the Pentagon last year to promote cooperation with that country.
Acknowledging India's positive contributions to regional security and stability, including in matters beyond the maritime space, Mr Carter and Mr Parrikar announced their agreement to further consultations in the area, including through the next Maritime Security Dialogue, scheduled later this year.
Mr Parrikar is scheduled to visit extremely sensitive US military facilities including DARPA, the Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency, which is involved in some of the most classified US military projects. He will visit Boeing's manufacturing facility at Philadelphia.
He would also interact with American defence industry representatives at an event organised by the US-India Business Council (USIBC).
Earlier on Monday, Mr Parrikar was accorded an enhanced honor cordon by Mr Carter after he arrived at the Pentagon in Washington.
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The world knows their deception in all major wars.. and india is still going ahead to join with the LIAR, India will be trapped to give the lands to commit wars from our soil.... Modern day colonialism.
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