WASHINGTON, June 6: The White House confirmed on Monday that President George W. Bush will receive Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at his official residence on July 18.

“The visit marks the next stage in expanding and deepening US-India relationship, building on the recent high-level exchanges and initiatives between the two governments,” said the statement.

“The two leaders will touch on all aspects of US-India cooperation including economic, energy, and strategic elements,” it added.

White House spokesman Scott McClellan said the meeting would cover terrorism, defence, trade and other issues.

The Bush administration has offered New Delhi an upgraded version of the F-16 fighter jet and is looking into setting up nuclear power plants to meet India’s growing energy needs. India has still not decided whether to accept the F-16 offer.