India, US to deepen counter-terror cooperation: Obama

MUMBAI - US President Barack Obama Saturday said he looked forward to deepening counter-terror cooperation with India.

“I look forward to deepening counter-terror cooperation when I meet Prime Minister (Manmohan) Singh,” Obama said after signing the visitors’ book at the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower Hotel here.

India and the US were working more closely than ever to keep their people safe, Obama said.

He described the Taj hotel, his first halt at the start of a hectic India visit, as a symbol of strength and resolve for withstanding the horrific terror attack of 2008.

Terrorists who sneaked into Mumbai from Pakistan in November 2008 went on a killing spree in several places, including the Taj hotel where they shot dead numerous unsuspecting guests and employees.

“Taj has been a symbol of strength and resolve. Mumbai has been a symbol of incredible energy, Obama said.