U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi touted progress in talks for a trade deal between the two countries, their offices said on Monday, as New Delhi rushes to avoid U.S.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance has begun a four-day tour of India as the two countries seek to strengthen their partnership by negotiating a bilateral trade deal.

The meeting caps the first of a four-day visit by Vance and his family, a trip that underscores India’s importance among countries seeking trade negotiations with the U.S.