PM Narendra Modi's visit redefines India-US common goals: Nirmala Sitharaman

New Delhi: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday termed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US as "historic" and said it redefined the strategic participation in various areas of common goals between the two countries.

"During this visit, many important agreements have been signed on the subject of defense production, technology and employment," Sitharaman said while addressing a press conference here at party headquarters in New Delhi.

Speaking over the importance of the visit, the Finance Minister said, "The agreement between HAL and GE for the joint production of F414 aircraft engines was one of the major achievements of PM Modi's visit to the US".

"As a significant and meaningful milestone in the growth of the semiconductor eco-system, Micron will set up its semiconductor and test plant in Gujarat entailing a total investment of $ 2.75 billion" she added.

The Finance Minister said, "It is expected to create nearly 5,000 new direct jobs and around 15,000 indirect jobs over the next few years".

Talking about PM address to joint session of the US Congress, She said very few people have got the opportunity to address the Congress and the Prime Minister was invited by both the parties of America.

"For the second time for a PM to be called to address a joint session of the US Congress is a matter of pride for all of us in this country" she added.

On Yoga, She said Around 135 nationalities gathered at the UN Headquarters lawns to perform Yoga along with PM Modi during his visit to the US.

"It is great to note that under Modi's leadership, Yoga is being popularized all over the world" Nirmala said.

Over the ongoing visit to Egypt, Nirmala Sitharaman said he has been conferred with 'Order of the Nile', Egypt's highest honour.

"The Prime Minister has received 13 international awards till date. It is a matter of pride for the country" she added.

(With UNI inputs)