New Delhi: Amid standoff at India-China border, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday had a telephonic conversation with his US counterpart Mark T Esper and exchanged their views on regional developments of shared interest.
The interaction assumes significance amid face-offs between the troops of India and China border in Eastern Ladakh. The tension at the border continues to simmer since May 5-6.
During their conversation, issues relating to standoff with Chinese troops in Ladakh regions were also came up.
As per the sources in the defence ministry, Mr Singh made it clear that there are bilateral mechanisms in place. India is patient and hopeful of a resolution.
They reviewed progress on various bilateral defence cooperation arrangements.
The two ministers briefed each other on the respective experience of fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and vowed to continue the excellent bilateral cooperation in this regard, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.
During their telephonic interaction, they expressed their commitment to further promote our defence partnership.
“Discussed issues pertaining to COVID-19 situation with the US Secretary of Defense, Mr. Mark T. Esper. As strategic partners with close economic and defence ties, India and the United States will work together to deal with the complex challenges posed by this pandemic,” the defence minister said in a tweet.
Further, Mr Singh invited Secretary Esper to visit India at the earliest mutual convenience, which the latter accepted with pleasure.
The minister also appreciated Secretary Esper's condolence over lives lost in Eastern India during Cyclone Amphan recently, and briefed him on India’s relief efforts.
