Ashgabat (Turkmenistan), July 11 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said India and Turkmenistan have a "common purpose" in combating terrorism, and also emphasised on enhancing economic ties.

Speaking after his meeting with Turkmenistan's President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, the visiting Indian prime minister referred to the "deep rooted civilisation ties" with the central Asian nation.

"Our long standing and deep rooted civilization ties are well known. As India deepens its relation with central Asia, Turkmenistan will play an essential part," Modi said.

"We have common purpose in combating terrorism and extremism in our regions," he said.

Talking about enhancing economic ties, Modi said: "We had a good discussion on India's investment in downstream industries... I also proposed that Turkmenistan becomes a member of the International North South Transport Corridor."

Modi added that he is looking forward to President Berdimuhamedow's visit to India.