New Delhi: Kerry, who arrived here Sunday on a three-day visit, has said he was keen to push forward implementation of the Indo-US civil nuclear deal and for more defence co-production and co-development, besides cooperation in higher education and otherissues.

India and the US began the fourth edition of the India-US Strategic Dialogue here Monday. It was co-chaired by External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid and US Secretary of State John Kerry.

The talks are being held in Hyderabad House. Later on, the two are to hold a press conference.

Afghanistan, the drawdown by the US-led international forces, the US proposal of talks with the Taliban, the elections there next year are also expected to figure as well as other regional matters, including relations with Pakistan.