Modi, Biden discuss ties in phone conversation

Gulf Today Report

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held his first phone conversation with US President-elect Joe Biden to congratulate him on his election victory.

US President-elect Joe Biden gestures to the audience. File photo

Modi initially sent his congratulations to Biden in a social media message soon after US television networks projected him to be the winner of the Nov.3 election.

India’s External Affairs Ministry said on Wednesday they agreed to work closely to further advance the Indo-US comprehensive global strategic partnership.

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During their conversation they discussed their priorities, including containing the coronavirus pandemic, promoting access to affordable vaccines, tackling climate change and cooperating in the Indo-Pacific Region, the ministry said in a statement.

Modi had built close ties with Trump. The two leaders held a joint rally in the US city of Houston last year and again in Modi's home state of Gujarat this year, during a visit to India by Trump.

Vice President-elect Kamala Harris speaks during a press conference. File photo

During the telephone call, Modi also extended his best wishes to Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, the daughter of an Indian immigrant whose election to the second highest public office in the United States has been cheered in India.

The two leaders also discussed their priorities, including containing the novel coronavirus pandemic, promoting access to affordable vaccines and tackling climate change, the foreign ministry said.