Modi, Trump discuss Maldives situation in phone call

US President Donald Trump over a phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi indicated that India is at the centre of Washington’s Asia policy. The two leaders also discussed the political situation in Maldives, situation in Afghanistan, Rohingya crisis and about enhancing security in Indo-Pacific region.

“Both leaders expressed concern about the political crisis in Maldives and the importance of respect for democratic institutions and rule of law,” the White House said in a readout of the phone call between Trump and Modi, the first in this year. ET has learnt that India and USA are in close touch over Maldives situation. The two leaders also put a timeframe for 2 + 2 dialogue to take forward the agenda of strategic partnership.

“Finally, the leaders agreed to strengthen security and economic cooperation as they look forward to the ‘2+2’ ministerial dialogue between their defence and diplomatic officials in April,” the White House said. The ‘2+2 dialogue’ was announced after the White House meeting between Modi and Trump in June 2017.