US believes that India has took a smart long term strategy by reducing import of oil from Iran and both countries share a strategic aim with regard to Tehran's nuclear ambitions. Deputy Secretary of State William Burns said in Washington, India and the US share a clear strategic aim in stopping Iran from going nuclear because of the dangers of a nuclear arms race and everything else that could come from that. He emphasised that there have been consistent efforts by the international community to demonstrate to Iran that there are consequences for not meeting its international obligations. Mr. Burns said, there's a great deal of common ground between the US and India. That'll lead to cooperation in areas like water security too, which, again is an increasing challenge for India and something to which US can contribute based on it's experience over the years, he said.

Mr. Burns said, at a time when unemployment is a major issue in the US due to its poor economic status, Indian
companies through its massive investments in America have created 50,000 jobs in the country. He said, the economic relationship between the two countries is very much a two way street. Both are focused on attracting growth and investment . Mr. Burns praised the recent Indian decisions with regard to next phase of economic reforms. He emphasised that greater economic openness is not a concession to the US. It is one of the most powerful tools India has to maintain and expand its growth.