Modi-Biden meeting to focus on key issues including GE jet engines and 5G spectrum

• PM Modi and President Biden's upcoming bilateral meeting is expected to address critical issues, including GE jet engines, predator drones, 5G, and civil nuclear cooperation
• The prospects for a G20 joint statement are still unclear because of issues with Ukraine and divergent climate aims
• National Security Advisor of the US mentioned a significant connectivity initiative that the US has been actively pursuing with its partners

In a highly anticipated bilateral meeting set to take place later today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden are expected to make significant strides on several key issues, according to Jake Sullivan, the National Security Advisor of the United States. While Sullivan did not confirm certain reports, he highlighted areas of potential progress, including a deal involving GE jet engines, the procurement of predator drones, cooperation on 5G and 6G spectrum, collaboration on critical and emerging technologies, and advancements in the civil nuclear sector.

Mr. Sullivan said the US has put effort into the programme with its allies, but he did not confirm claims that it is about to announce a significant rail contract with India and the Arab world to connect Gulf countries and other Arab countries.

"We believe that connectivity from India, across the Middle East, to Europe is incredibly important and will bring a significant number of economic benefits, as well as strategic benefits, to all the countries involved. But where things land with respect to any potential announcements this weekend, as opposed to down the line, I can't say tonight," he said.

Responding to questions about the possibility of a joint statement by G20 member countries, Sullivan expressed cautious optimism. He stated that while the US is prepared to play its part in delivering such a statement, the outcome depends on whether every country involved is willing to be responsible and constructive. He noted that the main challenges in this regard revolve around the Ukraine issue and differing positions on climate, particularly between oil-producing nations and those advocating for more ambitious climate language.