NEW DELHI:
India and the US negotiators have been making “progress” in trying to resolve the differences in operationalising the landmark civil nuclear deal ahead of President Barack Obama’s arrival here on January 25 on a three -day visit, which is packed with high-voltage engagements.
Describing the three-day visit as “one of our most important diplomatic engagements in recent times”, Spokesperson in the External Affairs Ministry Syed Akbaruddin said cooperation in key areas of defence, security, counter- terrorism and the situation in India’s extended neighbourhood would be among the issues to be discussed between Obama and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Asked about the differences between the two sides on the nuclear deal, he said, “Our negotiators are working together in a collaborative manner in London. This is the third time the Contact Group, which was set up by the Prime Minister and the US President, is meeting in last nearly 45 days. One can see the element of effort going in the discussion on the nuclear issue, which is an extremely important issue…”
He said under the nuclear “rubric”, the Group was discussing administrative arrangements, how to actualise India’s quest for membership of Nuclear Supplier’s Group and also issues related to clarification and understanding of our nuclear liability regime.
“What is being discussed is how within the four walls of our legal framework, our legislation, we can provide assurance to our partners in the US and any concerns that they may have either through their vendors or lawyers that is the discussion that is taking place right now in London,” the Spokesperson said. Significantly, the talks, which started yesterday, have been extended by a day today. (AGENCIES)
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