Washington, DC – The visiting Indian National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval was hosted by the US Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis at the Pentagon today (March 24) to discuss the importance of the US-India relationship, and the role of both nations in cooperating to uphold international laws and principles.
“We are eager to listen and learn about each other and show mutual benefit and mutual respect for the relationship we have between our militaries,” Mattis said in his opening remarks.
The intent of the meeting was to continue to strengthen the relationship between the US and India who have many common interests and security challenges.
In a readout of the meeting, Pentagon Spokesman Capt. Jeff Davis further said, “Secretary Mattis specifically applauded India’s efforts to promote stability in the South Asia region. Both leaders reaffirmed building upon the significant defense cooperation progress made in recent years.”
Secretary Mattis and NSA Doval further discussed collaboration on a wide range of regional security matters including maritime security and counter terrorism, the readout said, concluding, “The two pledged to continue the strong defense partnership between both nations.”
Navtej Singh Sarna, the Indian Ambassador to the US, was also present at the meeting among other officials.