Obama visit takes India-US ties to new level, says Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday that US President Barack Obama’s visit to New Delhi has opened up a new chapter in India-America ties besides taking it up to a new level.

“Farewell @WhiteHouse! Your visit has taken India-USA ties to a new level & opened a new chapter,” Modi posted on Twitter as Obama and wife Michelle boarded the Air Force One to fly from New Delhi to Riyadh. “Wish you a safe journey,” he added.

Prime Minister, himself, had tweeted on November 21 to make public that his government had invited Obama be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade.

Obama, who became the first US president to attend the Republic Day ceremony as chief guest, is also the first US president to visit India twice during his tenure.He earlier visited New Delhi in November 2010.

The Obama-Modi meeting on Sunday saw India and US agreeing on removing roadblocks for implementation of the landmark 2008 civil nuclear agreement.

They also agreed to take defence ties beyond buyer-seller relationship and identified specific military hardware for co-development and co-production projects. “As for the rainy day yesterday, as you yourself said @WhiteHouse today morning, Bade Bade Deshon Mein...” Modi tweeted on Tuesday.

“Thank you @NarendraModi for a memorable visit, and to the Indian people for their warm welcome,” Obama’s response was also tweeted by White House.