Post Imran rhetoric, PM Modi dials Trump

Tribune News Service

NEW DELHI, AUGUST 19

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today told US President Donald Trump that extreme rhetoric and incitement to anti-India violence by certain leaders in the region was not conducive to peace.

In a 30-minute telephonic conversation with Trump, Modi underscored the importance of creating an environment free from terror and violence and eschewing cross-border terrorism without exception. The reference was obviously to Pakistan leadership, including Prime Minister Imran Khan, which is making provocative statements ever since Parliament scrapped provision granting special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

“The Prime Minister reiterated India’s commitment to cooperate with anyone who followed this path, in fighting poverty, illiteracy and disease,” an official release said, adding their conversation covered bilateral and regional matters and was marked by the warmth and cordiality which characterises the relations between the two leaders.

The PM recalled their meeting in Osaka on the margins of G-20 summit in June earlier this year. Referring to their bilateral discussions in Osaka, the PM expressed hope that the Commerce Minister of India and the US Trade Representative would meet at an early date to discuss the bilateral trade prospects for mutual benefit.

Recalling that today marked the 100 years of Independence of Afghanistan, the Prime Minister reiterated India’s longstanding and unwavering commitment to work for united, secure, democratic and truly independent Afghanistan.

Reduce tension: Prez

The President conveyed the importance of reducing tensions between India and Pakistan and maintaining peace in the region. — A White House statement