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Washington, August 30: India and the United States have signed a key logistics agreement that will enable forces of both the countries to use each other’s bases for repair and replenishment of supplies.
US Defence Secretary Ash Carter told reporters at the Pentagon on Monday night that he and Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar formally signed the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA).
The two leaders had agreed on the memorandum in principle when they last met in India in April. Carter said the agreement was fully mutual and would make joint operations easier and more efficient.
Addressing a joint press conference with Carter, Parrikar said this was not an agreement to set up bases, but to facilitate logistical support between the two militaries.
He said that in the agreement, there is no provision for setting up a base in India. The Defence Minister said the LEMOA facilitated the provision of logistical support, supplies, and services between the US and Indian militaries on a reimbursable basis, and provided a framework to govern them. “This may include food, water, transportation, petroleum, clothing, medical services, training services, and other logistical items and services,” he said.
During Parrikar’s visit to the Pentagon, the two leaders discussed India’s recent designation as a major US defence partner. Monday’s talk at the Pentagon, the sixth meeting between the two leaders, came ahead of key annual exercises in India between the US and the Indian forces.
On his arrival at the Pentagon on Monday, Parrikar was given an enhanced honour cordon. The enhanced honour is reserved for valued guests and visitors during which national anthems are played. After the ceremonial welcome, Parrikar laid wreath at the 9/11 Memorial, following which the two leaders headed for talks
