Obama makes farewell calls to Afghan, Indian leaders

Outgoing US president thanks Modi for his partnership

Outgoing US President Barack Obama on Wednesday made farewell telephone calls to the leaders of Afghanistan and India, the White House said.

During his conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Obama expressed gratitude for his partnership, and congratulated him on India's upcoming 68th Republic Day anniversary, Associated Press reported.



The two leaders also recalled joint efforts of cooperation, including defense, civil nuclear energy and climate change among other matters of importance.

Obama's conversation with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani was joined by the country's chief executive Dr Abdullah Abdullah. During the phone call, Obama appreciated the leaders for supporting the partnership between the US and Afghanistan. He urged Ghani and Abdullah to continue working for lasting peace and stability.



In June last year, Obama and Modi vowed cooperation between the United States and India on nuclear power and climate change during a meeting at the White House. Offering Modi a warm embrace, Obama said it was his “great pleasure to welcome back my friend Prime Minister Modi to the Oval Office.”

Obama also offered high profile backing for Modi’s bid to normalise India’s once clandestine nuclear program.