New Delhi: In a statement, the Prime Minister’s Office said, “their (Modi-Trump) 30-minute conversation covered bilateral and regional matters and was marked by the warmth and cordiality which characterises the relations between the two leaders”.
Mr Modi remarked that “he appreciated remaining in regular touch with President Trump”, with sources saying that it was a “mutually-decided call”.
But it is yet unclear whether PM Modi and President Trump will have a bilateral meeting soon on the sidelines of the forthcoming G-7 Summit in Biarritz, France, on August 26.
In another obvious reference to Pakistani support to cross-border terrorism, Mr Modi apprised President Trump of the “importance of creating an environment free from terror and violence and eschewing cross-border terrorism without exception”.
In an indication towards New Delhi’s stand that dialogue and cooperation with Pakistan is possible only if Islamabad gives up its support to terrorism, Mr Modi also “reiterated India’s commitment to cooperate with anyone who followed this path, in fighting poverty, illiteracy and disease”.
The phone call between Mr Modi and Mr Trump on Monday is being seen as a possible American attempt to play an indirect role in reducing tensions between the two nuclear-capable neighbours.
The phone call follows an uproar last month when Mr Trump had claimed that Mr Modi had asked for his mediation on the Kashmir issue with Pakistan. New Delhi had then swiftly denied the claim.
