India and the United States have signed an agreement to help each other investigate organized crime -- including terrorism, drug trafficking and economic offenses.

A statement by India's interior (Home) ministry says the agreement is aimed at helping each other by exchanging evidence and transferring suspects so they can testify in court cases.

The pact will also make it easier for authorities in one country to issue search warrants and orders to seize assets on behalf of officials in the other nation.

It was signed by India's Home Secretary V. K. Duggal and U.S. Ambassador David Mulford, who said the pact will enhance mutual cooperation to combat "criminal activities, drug trafficking and scourge of terrorism."

Mr. Duggal said India is the 16th country to sign such a treaty with the United States. The others include Britain, Canada, France, Russia and Switzerland.