US now striving for Indian nuclear contracts

Philippines News.Net
Saturday 11th October, 2008

With India and the US agreeing to an historic and unprecedented civil nuclear deal after over three years, they have also widened their horizons to the issue of bilateral relations.

India’s External Affairs Minister, Pranab Mukherjee, and US Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice, who signed the landmark deal on Friday, have both made it clear they have set their sights higher.

Mr Mukherjee has said he views the pact as an opening for nuclear trade with the US and the wider international community.

Referring to India's $150 billion nuclear industry, he indicated that American firms should not expect any preferential treatment in gaining nuclear contracts but said he looked forward to working with US companies on the commercial steps to India’s nuclear independence.

He said the commercial aspect would be taken into account in an expanding relationship with the US and other countries, including France and Russia.

At the signing, US Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice termed the agreement as “a diplomatic triumph for both our nations.”

Rice said: “What is most valuable about this agreement is how it unlocks a new and far broader world of potential for our strategic partnership in the 21st century, not just on nuclear cooperation but on every area of national endeavour.”

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