India, U.S. sign agreements on counter-terrorism, clean energy, other matters

WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — While Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the U.S. on Monday, a series of Memorandum of Understandings’ (MoU) and other agreements have been agreed upon by the two nations.

Here is a quick update of what’s been finalized to date:

• Arrangement between the Multi-Agency Center and Intelligence Bureau of the Government of India and the Terrorist Screening Center of the Government of the United States of America for the exchange of Terrorist Screening Information.

Signed on June 2 in New Delhi, the arrangement primarily serves as an instrument for the two countries to share terrorist information. Shri Rajiv, India’s Union Home Secretary, and Richard Verma, India’s ambassador to the U.S., were the signees.

India and the U.S. shall provide each other access to terrorism screening information through the designated contact points, subject to domestic laws and regulations.The arrangement would enhance the counter terrorism cooperation between India and the U.S.

• Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of India and the Government of the United States of America to enhance cooperation on Energy Security, Clean Energy and Climate Change.

Signed on June 2 in New Delhi, this MoU seeks to enhance the energy security relationship between India and the U.S. Shri P.K. Pujari, India’s Secretary Ministry of Power, and Richard Verma were the signees.

The objective of the MoU is to enhance cooperation between India and the U.S. on energy security, clean energy and climate change through increased bilateral engagement and further joint initiatives for promoting sustainable growth.

• Memorandum of Understanding between Government of India and Government of the United States of America to enhance cooperation on Wildlife Conservation and Combating Wildlife Trafficking.

Signed on June 2 in Washington D.C., the MoU serves primarily as a wildlife conservation tool. Shri Arun K. Singh, India’s ambassador to the U.S., and Catherine A. Novelli, Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy and the Environment, were the signees.

The MoU seeks cooperation in areas such as Wildlife Forensics and Conservation Genetics; Natural World Heritage Conservation and Nature Interpretation; and Conservation Awareness, between India and the US for wildlife conservation and management and combating wildlife trafficking.

• Memorandum of Understanding between Consular, Passport and Visa Division of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Homeland Security of the United States for the Development of an International Expedited Traveler Initiative.

Signed on June 3 in Washington D.C., seeks to provide expedited travel for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. Ambassador Singh and Kevin K. McAleenan, Deputy Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection were the signees.

The Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program, which allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. After joint scrutiny and clearance by both countries, the approved Indian travelers will be extended the facility of expedited entry into the United States through automatic kiosks at select airports.

• Technical Arrangement between the Indian Navy and the United States Navy concerning Unclassified Maritime Information Sharing.

Signed last month, this arrangement will allow the sharing of unclassified information between the two countries. Vice Admiral Karambir Singh, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff and Vice Admiral Ted N. Branch, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Information Warfare, were the signees.

The Arrangement would allow sharing of unclassified information on White Shipping between India and the U.S. as permitted by respective national laws, regulations and policies, and provides a framework for mutually beneficial maritime information.