Kerry arrives for strategic dialogue

New Delhi: US Secretary of State John Kerry arrived in New Delhi to hold 5th Indo-US Strategic Dialogue on Thursday during which India will be raising issues of snooping by the US' NSA and terrorism even as the two sides will explore "transformative initiatives" in key areas such as defence and energy.

Kerry along with his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj will co-chair the Dialogue which will also be attended by senior representatives of various ministries including home and defence. Union Minister of State for Commerce (Independent charge) Nirmala Sitharaman will also participate in the Dialogue which will explore ways to strengthen bilateral business ties.

Noting that the Indo-US ties were at a stage of "stable and mature growth", the Spokesperson in the External Affairs Ministry said the two ministers are expected to explore new frontiers and initiatives to further promote bilateral relations.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's September visit to the US during which he will hold talks with President Barack Obama in Washington at the invitation of the American leader, the Spokesperson said, "The opportunity (of Dialogue) will be taken to explore transformative initiatives which can move the Indo-US relations to the next level. In this context, Kerry will also meet the Prime Minister...".