WASHINGTON, Sep 23 (INP): US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis will visit India and hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Indian counterpart Nirmala Sitharaman to discuss the Afghanistan and South Asia policy announced President Trump urging India to play a greater role in the war torn country. “During his two-day visit the secretary will also express US’ appreciation for India’s important contributions toward Afghanistan’s stability, democracy, stability and prosperity,” the Pentagon said. Mattis’ visit to India comes after Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, held a bilateral meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on the sidelines of the annual UN General Assembly meeting in New York. INP/AH/LK