On Friday (November 10), US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in India ahead of the so-called "2+2" ministerial dialogue that begins today. Before the high-level ministerial dialogue,&nbsp;he held talks with India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

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<h2>2+2 talks&nbsp;</h2>

Blinken arrived in India on Friday ahead of talks which, as per officials, would not be about the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, but would focus on security challenges in the Indo-Pacific and concerns over China.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-ethics-panel-recommends-expulsion-of-tmc-mp-mahua-moitra-in-cash-for-query-charges-657001">Parliament ethics panel recommends expulsion of TMC MP Mahua Moitra in cash-for-query charges</a>

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will also take part in the "2+2" ministerial dialogue that begins Friday. India's Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will also be part of the discussions. These will be the fifth edition of the talks to further the India-US futuristic roadmap for deeper strategic cooperation.

The talks, as per ANI news agency citing officials, will pick up the threads from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's June visit to Washington and&nbsp;US President Joe Biden's trip to New Delhi for the G20 summit in September. As per the Indian Defence Ministry, several strategic defence and technology issues are expected to be discussed at the 2+2 dialogue and during the bilateral meeting between Singh and Austin.

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"The ministers will take the opportunity to progress the futuristic roadmap for the India-US partnership as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joseph Biden, in their discussions in June and September this year," said the MEA.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Friday (November 10), US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in India ahead of the so-called "2+2" ministerial dialogue that begins today. Before the high-level ministerial dialogue, he held talks with India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

On Friday (November 10), US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in India ahead of the so-called "2+2" ministerial dialogue that begins today. Before the high-level ministerial dialogue, he held talks with India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. EAM Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Blinken meet ahead of India, US 2+2 in Delhi pic.twitter.com/cd7vzTWI1h — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) November 10, 2023 × 2+2 talks Blinken arrived in India on Friday ahead of talks which, as per officials, would not be about the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, but would focus on security challenges in the Indo-Pacific and concerns over China. Also read | Parliament ethics panel recommends expulsion of TMC MP Mahua Moitra in cash-for-query charges US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will also take part in the "2+2" ministerial dialogue that begins Friday. India's Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will also be part of the discussions. These will be the fifth edition of the talks to further the India-US futuristic roadmap for deeper strategic cooperation. The talks, as per ANI news agency citing officials, will pick up the threads from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's June visit to Washington and US President Joe Biden's trip to New Delhi for the G20 summit in September. As per the Indian Defence Ministry, several strategic defence and technology issues are expected to be discussed at the 2+2 dialogue and during the bilateral meeting between Singh and Austin. Also read | Indian ragpicker finds 'package with $3mn currency notes that made him sick'. He then... "The ministers will take the opportunity to progress the futuristic roadmap for the India-US partnership as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joseph Biden, in their discussions in June and September this year," said the MEA. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian EAM S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken hold talks ahead of '2+2' dialogue

After India, US 2+2 dialogue in Washington both sides issued&nbsp;a joint statement calling on&nbsp;"Pakistan to take immediate, sustained, and irreversible action to ensure that no territory under its control is used for terrorist attacks."

On India's determination to purchase the S-400 missile defence system from Russia, US secretary of State Antony Blinken said: "We have not made determination potential sanctions or waivers under CAATSA law."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-purchases-for-the-month-would-be-less-than-what-europe-does-in-an-afternoon-jaishankar-on-russian-oil-470374">Also Read |&nbsp;Our purchase&nbsp;of Russian oil&nbsp;would be less than what Europe does in an afternoon: Jaishankar</a>

The US secretary of state reiterated that he had urged all nations not to undertake weapons delivery from Russia during the 2+2 ministerial dialogue between the defence and foreign ministers of India and the United States.

However, Blinken acknowledged that India and Russia have a "long history and long relationship" in defence equipment trade.

"That relationship took hold at a time when we were not able and willing to be a partner to India. Now we are both able and willing to be such a partner to be the security partner of choice for India," Blinken said.

Watch:&nbsp;India-US 2+2 meeting: Ukraine war looms large&nbsp;

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US defence secretary Lloyd Austin said the Biden administration has&nbsp;been "actively" discussing "military modernisation with India".

Austin had stated&nbsp;earlier that India uses several Russian-made weapons, including tanks and missile systems and has signed military deals including the purchase of S-400 missile defence system.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-22-dialogue-a-momentous-moment-in-global-affairs-470362">Also Read:&nbsp;India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs</a>

The US defence secretary announced that India and the US had signed a bilateral space situational awareness arrangement on the sidelines of the India-US 2+2 ministerial dialogue.

"We recently concluded an agreement to work together on air-launched unmanned aerial vehicles through our Defence Technology and Trade Initiative," Austin informed.

The US defence secretary said he welcomed Indian Navy's decision to join the combined maritime forces in Bahrain while reminding that the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group had conducted the first-ever combined anti-submarine warfare and air exercise with the Indian Navy and Air Force last year.

(With inputs from Agencies)

After India, US 2+2 dialogue in Washington both sides issued a joint statement calling on "Pakistan to take immediate, sustained, and irreversible action to ensure that no territory under its control is used for terrorist attacks.

After India, US 2+2 dialogue in Washington both sides issued a joint statement calling on "Pakistan to take immediate, sustained, and irreversible action to ensure that no territory under its control is used for terrorist attacks." On India's determination to purchase the S-400 missile defence system from Russia, US secretary of State Antony Blinken said: "We have not made determination potential sanctions or waivers under CAATSA law." Also Read | Our purchase of Russian oil would be less than what Europe does in an afternoon: Jaishankar The US secretary of state reiterated that he had urged all nations not to undertake weapons delivery from Russia during the 2+2 ministerial dialogue between the defence and foreign ministers of India and the United States. However, Blinken acknowledged that India and Russia have a "long history and long relationship" in defence equipment trade. "That relationship took hold at a time when we were not able and willing to be a partner to India. Now we are both able and willing to be such a partner to be the security partner of choice for India," Blinken said. Watch: India-US 2+2 meeting: Ukraine war looms large US defence secretary Lloyd Austin said the Biden administration has been "actively" discussing "military modernisation with India". Austin had stated earlier that India uses several Russian-made weapons, including tanks and missile systems and has signed military deals including the purchase of S-400 missile defence system. Also Read: India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs The US defence secretary announced that India and the US had signed a bilateral space situational awareness arrangement on the sidelines of the India-US 2+2 ministerial dialogue. "We recently concluded an agreement to work together on air-launched unmanned aerial vehicles through our Defence Technology and Trade Initiative," Austin informed. The US defence secretary said he welcomed Indian Navy's decision to join the combined maritime forces in Bahrain while reminding that the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group had conducted the first-ever combined anti-submarine warfare and air exercise with the Indian Navy and Air Force last year. (With inputs from Agencies)

India-US 2+2 talks: CAATSA waiver for Russian S-400 system, Pak support for terror discussed

Just hours after US President Joe Biden spoke to India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a virtual summit, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said,&nbsp;"It is important that all countries, especially those with leverage, press Putin to end the war" referring to the Ukraine war.

"It's also important that democracy stand together and speak with one voice to defend the values that we share," the US Secretary of state added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/narendra-modi-and-joe-hold-virtual-talks-to-discuss-russia-ukraine-war-470320">Also Read: Modi and Joe Biden hold virtual talks, discuss Russia-Ukraine war and other issues</a>

Defending India's position on buying Russian oil, India's external affairs minister S. Jaishankar&nbsp;said: "We buy some energy necessary for our energy security. But I suspect, looking at figures, our purchases for the month would be less than what Europe does in an afternoon."

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine invasion: What Modi told Biden

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The US said energy imports from Russia are not banned&nbsp;and India is not violating US sanctions.

"Quad is a great stabiliser," Jaishankar added. Amid sanctions on Russia, Blinken said&nbsp;the Biden administration still has "not made determination potential sanctions or waivers under CAATSA law" with India intent on buying the S-400 missile defence system from Russia.

"India is the third-largest consumer of energy..we increased energy trade with India," Blinken informed.

S. Jaishankar&nbsp;said the India US 2+2 ministerial had helped to "strategise on mitigating the volatility and unpredictability that the world is currently experiencing".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-22-dialogue-a-momentous-moment-in-global-affairs-470362">Also Read:&nbsp;India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs</a>

In a joint statement after India, US 2+2 dialogue in Washington both sides called on "Pakistan to take immediate, sustained, and irreversible action to ensure that no territory under its control is used for terrorist attacks."

(With inputs from Agencies)

Just hours after US President Joe Biden spoke to India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a virtual summit, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, "It is important that all countries, especially those with leverage, press Putin to end the war" referring to the Ukraine war.

Just hours after US President Joe Biden spoke to India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a virtual summit, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, "It is important that all countries, especially those with leverage, press Putin to end the war" referring to the Ukraine war. "It's also important that democracy stand together and speak with one voice to defend the values that we share," the US Secretary of state added. Also Read: Modi and Joe Biden hold virtual talks, discuss Russia-Ukraine war and other issues Defending India's position on buying Russian oil, India's external affairs minister S. Jaishankar said: "We buy some energy necessary for our energy security. But I suspect, looking at figures, our purchases for the month would be less than what Europe does in an afternoon." Watch | Ukraine invasion: What Modi told Biden The US said energy imports from Russia are not banned and India is not violating US sanctions. "Quad is a great stabiliser," Jaishankar added. Amid sanctions on Russia, Blinken said the Biden administration still has "not made determination potential sanctions or waivers under CAATSA law" with India intent on buying the S-400 missile defence system from Russia. "India is the third-largest consumer of energy..we increased energy trade with India," Blinken informed. S. Jaishankar said the India US 2+2 ministerial had helped to "strategise on mitigating the volatility and unpredictability that the world is currently experiencing". Also Read: India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs In a joint statement after India, US 2+2 dialogue in Washington both sides called on "Pakistan to take immediate, sustained, and irreversible action to ensure that no territory under its control is used for terrorist attacks." (With inputs from Agencies)

Our purchases for the month would be less than what Europe does in an afternoon: Jaishankar on Russian oil

&nbsp;The annual India, US 2+2 meet at foreign and defense ministers' level will take place in the third week of January in Washington. &nbsp;India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and defence minister Rajnath Singh will travel to Washington for the meeting.

It is the&nbsp;fourth round of dialogue that is taking place which alternates between New Delhi and Washington. Three rounds of dialogue have taken place between the two sides so far in September 2018, December 2019 and in October 2020. The dialogue this year was proposed in the first week of December but could not materialise.

The 2+2 meet is an annual mechanism at the foreign and defence minister's&nbsp;level between India and the US meant to discuss bilateral ties in defence, strategic and security domains.

The inaugural India-US ministerial 2+2 dialogue was held on September 6, 2018 in New Delhi in which the then US secretary of state Michael R. Pompeo and secretary of defence James N. Mattis had visited India to hold dialogue with EAM late Sushma Swaraj and former defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

India has 2+2 mechanisms at the foreign and defence ministers' level with four countries - US, Japan, Australia and Russia. &nbsp;Russia is the only non-Quad member with which India has this mechanism.

The maiden Indo-Russia 2+2 meet had taken place&nbsp;in New Delhi on December 6, the day that saw Russian President Putin visiting India for the annual India-Russia summit.

The dialogue took place in the backdrop of India getting deliveries of the S-400 missile defence system from Russia which can attract US CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act) sanctions.

However, it depends on the US Congress on whether there will be a waiver for India. This year&nbsp;saw Indian PM Modi visiting the US for the first in-person Quad summit which involves&nbsp;India, US, Australia and Japan. The relationship&nbsp;between India and US has&nbsp;increased steadily and become broad-based even as India-Russia ties while being traditional&nbsp;has&nbsp;seen defense and space being the only two&nbsp;key focus areas.

The annual India, US 2+2 meet at foreign and defense ministers' level will take place in the third week of January in Washington. India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and defence minister Rajnath Singh will travel to Washington for the meeting.

The annual India, US 2+2 meet at foreign and defense ministers' level will take place in the third week of January in Washington. India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and defence minister Rajnath Singh will travel to Washington for the meeting. It is the fourth round of dialogue that is taking place which alternates between New Delhi and Washington. Three rounds of dialogue have taken place between the two sides so far in September 2018, December 2019 and in October 2020. The dialogue this year was proposed in the first week of December but could not materialise. The 2+2 meet is an annual mechanism at the foreign and defence minister's level between India and the US meant to discuss bilateral ties in defence, strategic and security domains. The inaugural India-US ministerial 2+2 dialogue was held on September 6, 2018 in New Delhi in which the then US secretary of state Michael R. Pompeo and secretary of defence James N. Mattis had visited India to hold dialogue with EAM late Sushma Swaraj and former defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman. India has 2+2 mechanisms at the foreign and defence ministers' level with four countries - US, Japan, Australia and Russia. Russia is the only non-Quad member with which India has this mechanism. The maiden Indo-Russia 2+2 meet had taken place in New Delhi on December 6, the day that saw Russian President Putin visiting India for the annual India-Russia summit. The dialogue took place in the backdrop of India getting deliveries of the S-400 missile defence system from Russia which can attract US CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act) sanctions. However, it depends on the US Congress on whether there will be a waiver for India. This year saw Indian PM Modi visiting the US for the first in-person Quad summit which involves India, US, Australia and Japan. The relationship between India and US has increased steadily and become broad-based even as India-Russia ties while being traditional has seen defense and space being the only two key focus areas.

India, US 2+2 foreign & defence ministers meet to take place in 3rd week of January

Russian President Vladimir Putin met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi as the two leaders conducted summit talks on Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gift-from-gujarat-pm-narendra-modi-gives-exquisite-agate-bowls-to-russian-president-vladimir-putin-434688https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russian-president-putin-arrives-in-india-meets-pm-modi-434610">Also Read |&nbsp;Gift from Gujarat: PM Modi gives exquisite gift to President Putin</a>

"In the last decades there has been a fundamental change in geostrategy but Russia and India have maintained their partnership," PM Modi said as he met Russian President Putin.

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Добро пожаловать, г-н президент! 
 
Welcome to India my friend President Putin. Our meeting today will strengthen our Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. The initiatives that we take today will further increase the scope of our cooperation to new areas. <a href="https://twitter.com/KremlinRussia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KremlinRussia</a> <a href="https://t.co/v699GK4BEM">pic.twitter.com/v699GK4BEM</a>
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"In 2021, we had the 2+2 dialogue which is a new mechanism to further our relationship," India's prime minister said.

PM Modi said India and Russia have been cooperating in various fields including in Make in India, space&nbsp;and other civil domains.

During the summit, the Russian president said the two countries have been holding summits every year but it could not take place last year due to the COVID-19 crisis.&nbsp;The two leaders also discussed regional and global developments including post-pandemic recovery and the prevailing situation in Afghanistan, the Indian foreign ministry said.

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I warmly thank H.E. President Putin for his visit to India. We exchanged very useful ideas for expanding our strategic, trade &amp; investment, energy, connectivity, defence, science &amp; technology and cultural cooperation. We also shared views on important global and regional issues. <a href="https://t.co/FQGFgQzsfX">pic.twitter.com/FQGFgQzsfX</a>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ak-203-rifles-to-s-400-air-defence-system-what-to-expect-from-power-packed-india-russia-summit-434494">Also Read:&nbsp;AK-203 rifles to S-400 air defence system: What to expect from power-packed India-Russia summit</a>

"We perceive India as a great power and trusted friend," President Putin said. The Russian president informed that although trade had declined last year but it increased by 38 per cent this year even as investments also increased.

The Russian president said both countries have been cooperating on important matters including energy, space and high tech sectors.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/deliveries-of-russian-s-400-missile-system-have-begun-will-continue-to-happen-harsh-shringla-434729">Also Read|&nbsp;Deliveries of Russian S-400 missile system have begun: Harsh Shringla</a>

The MEA added that the role of connectivity through the International North-South Transport Corridor(INSTC) and the proposed Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor was also discussed between the two leaders.&nbsp;

"We also cooperate in the military sphere like no other country, by that I mean we develop technologies," the Russian president added. &nbsp;Putin said both countries have been holding joint military exercises on each other's territories.

"We are concerned about terrorism, terror finance and organised crime," the Russian president said adding&nbsp;that&nbsp;he was concerned about developments in Afghanistan.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi as the two leaders conducted summit talks on Monday. Also Read | Gift from Gujarat: PM Modi gives exquisite gift to President Putin "In the last decades there has been a fundamental change in geostrategy but Russia and India have maintained their partnership," PM Modi said as he met Russian President Putin.

Russian President Vladimir Putin met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi as the two leaders conducted summit talks on Monday. Also Read | Gift from Gujarat: PM Modi gives exquisite gift to President Putin "In the last decades there has been a fundamental change in geostrategy but Russia and India have maintained their partnership," PM Modi said as he met Russian President Putin. Добро пожаловать, г-н президент! Welcome to India my friend President Putin. Our meeting today will strengthen our Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. The initiatives that we take today will further increase the scope of our cooperation to new areas. @KremlinRussia pic.twitter.com/v699GK4BEM — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 6, 2021 × "In 2021, we had the 2+2 dialogue which is a new mechanism to further our relationship," India's prime minister said. PM Modi said India and Russia have been cooperating in various fields including in Make in India, space and other civil domains. During the summit, the Russian president said the two countries have been holding summits every year but it could not take place last year due to the COVID-19 crisis. The two leaders also discussed regional and global developments including post-pandemic recovery and the prevailing situation in Afghanistan, the Indian foreign ministry said. I warmly thank H.E. President Putin for his visit to India. We exchanged very useful ideas for expanding our strategic, trade & investment, energy, connectivity, defence, science & technology and cultural cooperation. We also shared views on important global and regional issues. pic.twitter.com/FQGFgQzsfX — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 6, 2021 × Also Read: AK-203 rifles to S-400 air defence system: What to expect from power-packed India-Russia summit "We perceive India as a great power and trusted friend," President Putin said. The Russian president informed that although trade had declined last year but it increased by 38 per cent this year even as investments also increased. The Russian president said both countries have been cooperating on important matters including energy, space and high tech sectors. Also Read| Deliveries of Russian S-400 missile system have begun: Harsh Shringla The MEA added that the role of connectivity through the International North-South Transport Corridor(INSTC) and the proposed Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor was also discussed between the two leaders. "We also cooperate in the military sphere like no other country, by that I mean we develop technologies," the Russian president added. Putin said both countries have been holding joint military exercises on each other's territories. "We are concerned about terrorism, terror finance and organised crime," the Russian president said adding that he was concerned about developments in Afghanistan. (With inputs from Agencies)

We perceive India as a great power and trusted friend, says President Putin to PM Modi

The annual 2+2 ministerial dialogue between India and United States will take place in December.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and defence&nbsp;minister Rajnath Singh will travel to Washington for the meeting.&nbsp; Three&nbsp;rounds of&nbsp;dialogue have taken place between the two sides so far in September 2018,&nbsp;December 2019 and&nbsp;in October last year. The December dialogue will be the fourth meeting between the two sides. The dates for the dialogue are&nbsp;still being finalised.&nbsp;

The 2+2 meet is an annual mechanism at the foreign and defence&nbsp;ministries level between India and the US meant to&nbsp;discuss&nbsp;bilateral ties in defence, strategic and security domains.

The inaugural India-US&nbsp;ministerial 2+2 dialogue was held on September 6, 2018 in New Delhi in which the then US secretary of state Michael R. Pompeo and secretary of defence&nbsp;James N. Mattis had visited India to hold dialogue with EAM late Sushma Swaraj and former defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

India has 2+2 mechanism at foreign and defence ministers' level with four&nbsp;countries - US, Japan, Australia and Russia. Russia is the only non-Quad member with which India has this mechanism. The maidan Indo-Russia 2+2 is expected to meet soon.

The India-US 2+2 meet will come in the month that will see the visit of Russian President&nbsp;Vladimir Putin to India for the annual India Russia summit.

WION first broke the news of the Russian President coming to Delhi on December 6. Relations between Moscow and Washington are frayed currently due to multiple factors. Putin's visit will coincide with the delivery of S-400 missiles to India&nbsp;that could attract US's CAATSA -&nbsp;Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) sanctions.&nbsp;

However, it&nbsp;depends on the US Congress&nbsp;on whether there will&nbsp;there be a waiver for India. Saturday saw a US Congressional delegation meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The US Congressional delegation was led by Senator John Cornyn and included Senator Michael Crapo, Senator Thomas Tuberville, Senator Michael Lee, Congressman Tony Gonzales and Congressman John Kevin Elizey. Senator John Cornyn is the co-founder and co-chair of the Senate Caucus&nbsp;on India and Indian-Americans.

A release by Indian PMO said, "Prime Minister appreciated the consistent support and constructive role of the US Congress in deepening the India-US comprehensive global strategic partnership which is anchored in shared democratic values."

They had "warm and frank discussion on regional issues" including those related to South Asia and the Indo Pacific, the release stated, explaining that the PM and the visiting delegation "noted the increasing convergence of strategic interests between the two strategic partners and expressed the desire to further enhance cooperation with an aim to promote global peace and stability.

Earlier this year, PM Modi had visited the US and had held&nbsp;bilateral talks with US President Joe Biden in Washington.&nbsp;The relationship has also enjoyed strong bipartisan support in the US Congress. The India Caucus in the US Congress&nbsp;is the largest single-country Caucus with over 150 members.

The annual 2+2 ministerial dialogue between India and United States will take place in December. India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and defence minister Rajnath Singh will travel to Washington for the meeting.

The annual 2+2 ministerial dialogue between India and United States will take place in December. India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and defence minister Rajnath Singh will travel to Washington for the meeting. Three rounds of dialogue have taken place between the two sides so far in September 2018, December 2019 and in October last year. The December dialogue will be the fourth meeting between the two sides. The dates for the dialogue are still being finalised. The 2+2 meet is an annual mechanism at the foreign and defence ministries level between India and the US meant to discuss bilateral ties in defence, strategic and security domains. The inaugural India-US ministerial 2+2 dialogue was held on September 6, 2018 in New Delhi in which the then US secretary of state Michael R. Pompeo and secretary of defence James N. Mattis had visited India to hold dialogue with EAM late Sushma Swaraj and former defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman. India has 2+2 mechanism at foreign and defence ministers' level with four countries - US, Japan, Australia and Russia. Russia is the only non-Quad member with which India has this mechanism. The maidan Indo-Russia 2+2 is expected to meet soon. The India-US 2+2 meet will come in the month that will see the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to India for the annual India Russia summit. WION first broke the news of the Russian President coming to Delhi on December 6. Relations between Moscow and Washington are frayed currently due to multiple factors. Putin's visit will coincide with the delivery of S-400 missiles to India that could attract US's CAATSA - Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) sanctions. However, it depends on the US Congress on whether there will there be a waiver for India. Saturday saw a US Congressional delegation meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The US Congressional delegation was led by Senator John Cornyn and included Senator Michael Crapo, Senator Thomas Tuberville, Senator Michael Lee, Congressman Tony Gonzales and Congressman John Kevin Elizey. Senator John Cornyn is the co-founder and co-chair of the Senate Caucus on India and Indian-Americans. A release by Indian PMO said, "Prime Minister appreciated the consistent support and constructive role of the US Congress in deepening the India-US comprehensive global strategic partnership which is anchored in shared democratic values." They had "warm and frank discussion on regional issues" including those related to South Asia and the Indo Pacific, the release stated, explaining that the PM and the visiting delegation "noted the increasing convergence of strategic interests between the two strategic partners and expressed the desire to further enhance cooperation with an aim to promote global peace and stability. Earlier this year, PM Modi had visited the US and had held bilateral talks with US President Joe Biden in Washington. The relationship has also enjoyed strong bipartisan support in the US Congress. The India Caucus in the US Congress is the largest single-country Caucus with over 150 members.

India, US ties: 2+2 meet in December; US Congressional delegation meets PM Modi

As US secretary of state Mike Pompeo engaged with top Indian officials during the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-dialogue-in-a-major-boost-to-bilateral-ties-india-us-ink-strategic-defence-pact-beca-338263">2+2</a> dialogue, China's foreign ministry said that he should "stop hyping the so-called "China threat", and should stop sowing discord&nbsp;between China and other countries in the region as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">standoff along the LAC</a> between Indian and Chinese troops continues.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mike-pompeo-us-india-must-focus-on-chinese-threat-338313/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin urged Pompeo to "stop erroneous acts that undermine regional peace and stability," as the United States inked a landmark defence agreement with India which allows high-end US military technology and classified satellite data.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sustained-and-irreversible-action-india-us-ask-pakistan-to-act-on-terrorism-during-22-meet-338315">Also Read:&nbsp;India, US ask Pakistan to act on terrorism during 2+2 meet</a>

The Chinese foreign ministry urged the Pompeo to stop driving the Trump administration’s "anti-China" message while on his visit to India.

The 2+2 dialogue involved external affairs minister S Jaishankar and defence minister Rajath Singh along with US secretary of state Mike Pompeo and defence secretary Mark T Esper as the two sides discussed issues related to the&nbsp;militaries of the two countries as well as their interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

The two countries also signed the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) pact boosting defence times amid the India-China standoff along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-rising-border-disputes-india-to-get-5-military-theatre-commands-1-each-for-china-pakistan-338246">Also Read:&nbsp;India to get 5 military theatre commands, 1 each for China &amp; Pakistan</a>

According to the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) which was signed by the two countries, the agreement allows specific measures to ensure security standards for safeguarding critical information shared by the US with India.

The US had earlier designated India a "major defence partner" with the aim to boost defence trade and technology.

The two countries had earlier signed the COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) two year ago which provides for interoperability between the two militaries and ensures sale of high-end technology from the US to India.

As US secretary of state Mike Pompeo engaged with top Indian officials during the 2+2 dialogue, China's foreign ministry said that he should "stop hyping the so-called "China threat", and should stop sowing discord between China and other countries in the region as the standoff along the LAC between Indian and Chinese troops continues.

As US secretary of state Mike Pompeo engaged with top Indian officials during the 2+2 dialogue, China's foreign ministry said that he should "stop hyping the so-called "China threat", and should stop sowing discord between China and other countries in the region as the standoff along the LAC between Indian and Chinese troops continues. Watch: China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin urged Pompeo to "stop erroneous acts that undermine regional peace and stability," as the United States inked a landmark defence agreement with India which allows high-end US military technology and classified satellite data. Also Read: India, US ask Pakistan to act on terrorism during 2+2 meet The Chinese foreign ministry urged the Pompeo to stop driving the Trump administration’s "anti-China" message while on his visit to India. The 2+2 dialogue involved external affairs minister S Jaishankar and defence minister Rajath Singh along with US secretary of state Mike Pompeo and defence secretary Mark T Esper as the two sides discussed issues related to the militaries of the two countries as well as their interests in the Indo-Pacific region. The two countries also signed the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) pact boosting defence times amid the India-China standoff along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). Also Read: India to get 5 military theatre commands, 1 each for China & Pakistan According to the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) which was signed by the two countries, the agreement allows specific measures to ensure security standards for safeguarding critical information shared by the US with India. The US had earlier designated India a "major defence partner" with the aim to boost defence trade and technology. The two countries had earlier signed the COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) two year ago which provides for interoperability between the two militaries and ensures sale of high-end technology from the US to India.

India-China standoff: Stop hyping 'threat', China urges Pompeo amid 2+2 dialogue with India

&nbsp;India and the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-dialogue-in-a-major-boost-to-bilateral-ties-india-us-ink-strategic-defence-pact-beca-338263"> United States</a> have called on Pakistan to act on terrorism and not allow its territory to be used for terrorist attacks.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/news-alert-india-us-ink-deal-to-share-geospatial-data-338293/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The joint statement issued by both sides after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-india-must-focus-on-threat-posed-by-china-secretary-of-state-mike-pompeo-338239">2+2</a> foreign and defence minister meet in Delhi said, "They denounced the use of terrorist proxies and strongly condemned cross-border terrorism in all its forms" and emphasised the "need for concerted action against all terrorist networks, including al-Qaeda, ISIS/Daesh,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-declares-18-pakistan-based-individuals-including-hizbul-chief-chota-shakeel-as-terrorists-under-uapa-338247"> Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT)</a>, Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Hizb-ul-Mujahideen."

Earlier this year at the seventeenth meeting of the India-US Counter-Terrorism Joint Working Group had met virtually, followed by the third session of the India-US Designations Dialogue on September 9-10.

The joint statement calling on Pakistan to take "immediate, sustained and irreversible action" to ensure that "no territory under its control is used for terrorist attacks" asked Pakistan to "expeditiously bring to justice the perpetrators and planners of all such attacks, including 26/11 Mumbai, Uri, and Pathankot."

Both sides have been exchanging information on sanctions and designations against terror groups and individuals.&nbsp;

After the Pulwama terror attack last year, US along with India's allies like France helped to list Masood Azhar as a global terror at the UN. Azhar's Jaish-e-Mohammed was responsible for the 2019 terror attack in which India lost more than 40 paramilitary soldiers.

India and the United States have called on Pakistan to act on terrorism and not allow its territory to be used for terrorist attacks. Watch: The joint statement issued by both sides after the 2+2 foreign and defence minister meet in Delhi said, "They denounced the use of terrorist proxies and strongly condemned cross-border terrorism in all its forms" and emphasised the "need for concerted action against all terrorist networks, including al-Qaeda, ISIS/Daesh, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Hizb-ul-Mujahideen.

India and the United States have called on Pakistan to act on terrorism and not allow its territory to be used for terrorist attacks. Watch: The joint statement issued by both sides after the 2+2 foreign and defence minister meet in Delhi said, "They denounced the use of terrorist proxies and strongly condemned cross-border terrorism in all its forms" and emphasised the "need for concerted action against all terrorist networks, including al-Qaeda, ISIS/Daesh, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Hizb-ul-Mujahideen." Earlier this year at the seventeenth meeting of the India-US Counter-Terrorism Joint Working Group had met virtually, followed by the third session of the India-US Designations Dialogue on September 9-10. The joint statement calling on Pakistan to take "immediate, sustained and irreversible action" to ensure that "no territory under its control is used for terrorist attacks" asked Pakistan to "expeditiously bring to justice the perpetrators and planners of all such attacks, including 26/11 Mumbai, Uri, and Pathankot." Both sides have been exchanging information on sanctions and designations against terror groups and individuals. After the Pulwama terror attack last year, US along with India's allies like France helped to list Masood Azhar as a global terror at the UN. Azhar's Jaish-e-Mohammed was responsible for the 2019 terror attack in which India lost more than 40 paramilitary soldiers.

'Sustained and irreversible action': India, US ask Pakistan to act on terrorism during 2+2 meet

Ahead of next week's 2+2 dialogue between US and India, US State Department said that situation at Line of Actual Control between India and China will be discussed. The 2+ 2 meeting is due to take place on 26th and 27th October. This the third such dialogue between India and the US. US secretary of state Mike Pompeo and US Defence secretary Mark Esper will be visiting India to meet their Indian counterparts.

"Certainly, I think the situation on the Line of Actual Control will be – will probably be discussed at some point, and we’re watching the situation closely. &nbsp;I think both sides have expressed a desire to de-escalate violence," said Dean Thompson, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs. He was speaking with reporters in Washington.

"The Third India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue will entail a comprehensive discussion on cross-cutting bilateral issues of mutual interest. In addition, both sides will also exchange views on salient regional and global issues," said MEA Spokesperson Anurag Srivastav on Thursday during the weekly virtual press conference.

India and China are engaged in a tensed standoff at LAC in eastern Ladakh, which started in the month of April. The situation got worse in June after 20 Indian soldiers died in Galwan valley due to Chinese aggressiveness, and even though Chinese also suffered casualties, they never came out with any number.

On Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) a military pact, Thompson said, "We’re in the process of finalizing a lot of the discussions right now, and so I know that BECA and other agreements are in the works. &nbsp;I’m not going to, I think, commit to anything right this minute, but we do expect to have several items highlighted as we go through the trip."

BECA will be the last of the 4 foundational military pacts that will be signed to increase interoperability and share information. India and US have already signed the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) in 2018, Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) in 2016, General Security Of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) in 2002.

Asked about the 2+2 happening just a week before the US goes to the election, the state department official said, "the 2+2 had previously been scheduled, has been delayed, and this was an opportunity where schedules worked out to get together, so that’s really what’s driving the opportunity for this trip right now."

"There’s a lot happening in the relationship with India and with our other partners in the region, and so the fact that we could go now, that we could have this discussion, is driven by the situation in the region and what – where we’re headed," the official added.

The previous two dialogues were held in New Delhi in September 2018 and in Washington DC in December 2019. US Secretary of state will be on a four-country tour next week, starting with India, followed by Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia.

Ahead of next week's 2+2 dialogue between US and India, US State Department said that situation at Line of Actual Control between India and China will be discussed.

Ahead of next week's 2+2 dialogue between US and India, US State Department said that situation at Line of Actual Control between India and China will be discussed. The 2+ 2 meeting is due to take place on 26th and 27th October. This the third such dialogue between India and the US. US secretary of state Mike Pompeo and US Defence secretary Mark Esper will be visiting India to meet their Indian counterparts. "Certainly, I think the situation on the Line of Actual Control will be – will probably be discussed at some point, and we’re watching the situation closely. I think both sides have expressed a desire to de-escalate violence," said Dean Thompson, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs. He was speaking with reporters in Washington. "The Third India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue will entail a comprehensive discussion on cross-cutting bilateral issues of mutual interest. In addition, both sides will also exchange views on salient regional and global issues," said MEA Spokesperson Anurag Srivastav on Thursday during the weekly virtual press conference. India and China are engaged in a tensed standoff at LAC in eastern Ladakh, which started in the month of April. The situation got worse in June after 20 Indian soldiers died in Galwan valley due to Chinese aggressiveness, and even though Chinese also suffered casualties, they never came out with any number. On Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) a military pact, Thompson said, "We’re in the process of finalizing a lot of the discussions right now, and so I know that BECA and other agreements are in the works. I’m not going to, I think, commit to anything right this minute, but we do expect to have several items highlighted as we go through the trip." BECA will be the last of the 4 foundational military pacts that will be signed to increase interoperability and share information. India and US have already signed the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) in 2018, Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) in 2016, General Security Of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) in 2002. Asked about the 2+2 happening just a week before the US goes to the election, the state department official said, "the 2+2 had previously been scheduled, has been delayed, and this was an opportunity where schedules worked out to get together, so that’s really what’s driving the opportunity for this trip right now." "There’s a lot happening in the relationship with India and with our other partners in the region, and so the fact that we could go now, that we could have this discussion, is driven by the situation in the region and what – where we’re headed," the official added. The previous two dialogues were held in New Delhi in September 2018 and in Washington DC in December 2019. US Secretary of state will be on a four-country tour next week, starting with India, followed by Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia.

Situation at LAC will be discussed during 2+2 dialogue with India: US State Department

India and US will hold their third edition of 2+2 ministerial dialogue on October 27 in New Delhi, India.

Third India-US 2+2 ministerial dialogue to be hosted by India on Oct 27