New Delhi, Jan 25 (UNI) In his first contact at the highest level after assuming office, US President Donald Trump made a phone call to Prime Minister Narendra Modi late last night during which he described India as a 'true friend' and invited him to visit the US later this year. 'President Trump emphasised that the United States considers India a true friend and partner in addressing challenges around the world,’’ the White House said in a readout on the conversation released early this morning(Indian time). Mr Modi is the fifth world leader to be called by Mr Trump four days after taking charge as 45th President of the US. Earlier, he had made telephonic calls to leaders of immediate neighbours Canada and Mexico on Saturday and of Israel and Egypt on Sunday. The two discussed opportunities to strengthen the partnership between the United States and India in broad areas such as the economy and defence, and they also discussed security in the region of South and Central Asia, the White House statement said. 'President Trump and Prime Minister Modi resolved that the United States and India stand shoulder to shoulder in the global fight against terrorism. President Trump looked forward to hosting Prime Minister Modi in the United States later this year,’’ it said. More UNI NAZ SV ADG 0945