Jaishankar-Blinken meet: Indo-Pacific, Afghanistan, tackling COVID-19 on table for talks

"I am confident our discussions will be productive. Our bilateral cooperation has expanded, and covers all areas of relevance, our shared concerns are similar... Our talks will take these to practical outcomes. Peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific is as important as peace in Afghanistan,” Jaishankar said in opening remarks while welcoming Blinken for the talks.

He said the two countries must work together even more closely to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.

Blinken, in his remarks, said that the US "deeply appreciates" the work the two sides have been able to put together and the work they will do together.

He said there is a “greater imperative than ever” on bilateral cooperation and that both countries share basic interests and basic values.

He said the Biden administration is committed to making the bilateral strategic ties “stronger and deeper”.

“A broad-based, multi-sectoral, global comprehensive strategic partnership. EAM @DrSJaishankar welcomes US Secretary of State @SecBlinken,” MEA spokesperson Arindam Baghchi tweeted.

Earlier, Blinken met with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. He will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the evening. The US top diplomat arrived on Tuesday evening on a two-day visit.