The Daily Star/ANN - In the first telephonic conversation on Monday between US President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi since the former assumed office, the two leaders "resolved that the rule of law and the democratic process must be upheld in Burma," according to a White House read-out.

Biden and Modi "discussed at length regional developments and the wider geopolitical context," reports our New Delhi correspondent quoting a statement issued by the Indian PMO.

"They noted that the India-US partnership is firmly anchored in a shared commitment to democratic values and common strategic interests. They reiterated the importance of working with like-minded countries to ensure a rules-based international order and a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region," it said.

Modi "warmly congratulated" Biden, conveyed best wishes for his tenure, and looked forward to working closely with him to further elevate the India-US strategic partnership," the Indian PMO statement said.

Prime Minister Modi and President Biden also affirmed the importance of addressing the challenge of global climate change, it said, adding that Modi "welcomed President Biden's decision to re-commit to the Paris Agreement and highlighted the ambitious targets India has set for itself in the area of renewable energy."

Modi also took the opportunity to invite Joe Biden and Jill Biden to visit India at their earliest convenience.