As part of his push to clinch a comprehensive deal on climate change at the ongoing Paris conference, President Barack Obama spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday and discussed the progress in negotiations.
"Both leaders emphasised their personal commitment to secure a strong climate change agreement this week and their interest in our countries' working together to achieve a successful outcome," the White House said in a readout later.
Earlier at a news briefing, White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest said that President Obama continues to follow the developments at the Paris conference closely, adding: "He's getting regular updates from his team in Paris about the status of the negotiations."
Having ensured that the United States plays a leading role at the conference, Obama remains optimistic over a deal, Earnest said, noting that even ahead of the Paris
negotiations, the international community has made significant commitments to cut carbon pollution.
"More than 180 countries brought with them to Paris specific commitments to reduce carbon pollution. And those commitments were catalyzed by the historic agreement between the United States and China that was announced last fall to make significant reductions in the carbon pollution in our two countries," he said.
Besides talking with the Prime Minister, Obama has also had a telephone conversation with President Rousseff of Brail, Earnest said and spoke of the likelihood of the President speaking to other world leaders as the negotiations continue.
Modi, during the conversation, offered his condolences for the victims of last week's mass shooting in California. "On behalf of the American people, Obama also accepted Modi's condolences for the loss of life in the San Bernardino shootings," said the White House readout.