While holding discussions on terrorism and regional security, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to raise India's concerns about military aid to Pakistan when he meets US President Donald Trump this weekend. India believes the military aid given to Pak by the US is used against it to promote terrorism instead of eliminating terror groups.
Modi will be in Washington DC on June 25-26, 2017, at the invitation of Trump. This will be the first meeting between the two leaders after Trump taking over as the new US President.
The discussions are going to take place in the backdrop of media reports from US claiming that President Trump's administration is exploring hardening its approach toward Pakistan to crack down on Pak-based militants launching attacks in neighbouring Afghanistan where US security forces are positioned. Media reports claimed potential responses being discussed by the US Government included expanding US drone strikes, redirecting or withholding some aid to Pakistan and even downgrading Pakistan's status as a major non-NATO ally.
"It is logical to assume that the issues of global and regional security, and terrorism would figure in the discussions among the two leaders," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Gopal Baglay said on Thursday. "Our concerns on terrorism emanating from Pakistan are well known. We believe the (US) military aid is aimed against us. Our concern has been conveyed," Baglay added.
Briefing about Modi's programme in US, Baglay said the two leaders are also expected to discuss ways to push investments and trade to give a boost to economic cooperation. American is at present one of the biggest investors in India and top trading partner. The Indian side is also expected to convey its concerns about the proposed changes in the US H1 B visa policy, which once implemented is expected to have a major impact on Indian working in the US.
Meanwhile, following the agreement between lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems for joint production of F-16 fighter planes, there is a speculation about India planning to purchase 22 unarmed Predator Drones from the US for surveillance by the Indian Navy.