India says U.S. president's upcoming visit to bolster bilateral ties

India Thursday said it is viewing the upcoming visit of U.S. President Barack Obama as one which will bolster bilateral relations between the two countries.

"We see the visit of President Obama to India as strengthening of ties between India and the U.S. on the whole spectrum of our relationship," Indian External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin told media in the national capital.

He added, "From our perspective, the U.S. is a key partner in defense and counter-terrorism, science and technology and our path of growth. The U.S. is India's key interlocutor of global security structure. It is a partner in our efforts to seek peace and stability in our extended neighborhood."

President Obama, who will be the first U.S. leader to visit India twice during his tenure at the White House, will arrive in the country on January 25 on a three-day tour.

During his trip, President Obama will hold bilateral discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the first day. Indian President Pranab Mukherjee will also host a banquet for him the same evening, and he would attend the Republic Day celebrations on January 26 as the chief guest.

The U.S. president, who will be accompanied by his wife Michelle, apart from a large delegation, will visit the Taj Mahal on the final day of his tour. Endi