US President George W. Bush (C) and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh (L) listen to the national anthems during an arrival ceremony at the White House in Washington, DC. July 18. (AFP Photo)

US President George W. Bush (R) shakes hands with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh after a joint press conference at the White House. (AFP Photo)

    WASHINGTON, July 18 (Xinhuanet) -- US President George W. Bush met on Monday Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh with the two sides agreeing to increase cooperation on civilian nuclear energy, space, and high-technology issues.

    "Today, we announce the completion of the next steps in strategic partnership. Completing this partnership will help us further enhance our cooperation in the areas of civil nuclear, civil space and high-technology commerce," Bush said at a joint press conference with Singh.

    Singh last visited the United States in September 2004, when he attended the United Nations General Assembly and had his first meeting with Bush.

    The United States and India signed a 10-year agreement in last June paving the way for joint weapons production, cooperation on missile defense and possible lifting of US export controls for sensitive military technologies. Enditem