PM Modi terms his talks with Biden fruitful, US commits aids to tackle COVID

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi termed the conversation he had with US President Joe Biden over the telephone fruitful. A day before, Biden expressed the US's commitment, offering raw materials for vaccines to India, in the time of need.

PM Modi said that he had a "fruitful conversation" with the US President and also thanked Biden for timely assistance in its fight against Covid-19.

"Had a fruitful conversation with @POTUS @JoeBiden today. We discussed the evolving COVID situation in both countries in detail. I thanked President Biden for the support being provided by the United States to India," Modi tweeted.

"My discussion with @POTUS @JoeBiden also underscored the importance of smooth and efficient supply chains of vaccine raw materials and medicines. India-US healthcare partnership can address the global challenge of COVID-19," he added.

In a statement, the White House said: "The President pledged America's steadfast support for the people of India who have been impacted by the recent surge in COVID-19 cases... the United States is providing a range of emergency assistance, including oxygen-related supplies, vaccine materials, and therapeutics".

However, the White House statement did not mention the surplus 30 million doses of the AstraZeneca-Oxford University vaccine, which is available in India as Covishield.

With mass vaccinations scheduled to open up from May 1 for the 18-to 45-year age group, India is expected to need huge stocks of vaccine.

Several countries, including UK, EU, Germany, Afghanistan & Pakistan have expressed solidarity with India and have come to India's aid as the country is facing a severe shortage of medical oxygen and other equipment amid the second wave of the virus.