M A I N   N E W S

India, Russia to expand N-energy ties
Anita Katyal
Tribune News Service

Moscow, December 6
Russia today responded positively to India's request for expansion of their nuclear energy ties but, at the same time, indicated that any forward movement on cooperation in this area will depend on New Delhi meeting the conditions laid down by the United States and the members of the Nuclear Suppliers' Group (NSG).

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who had a 75-minute meeting with Russia President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin today, listed civilian nuclear energy as a key area of cooperation between the two countries along with defence and trade. At present, Russia is the only country involved in India's nuclear energy programme, helping it set up two nuclear rectors at Koodankulam in Tamil Nadu .

At his meeting with Dr. Singh yesterday, Russian Minister Viktor Khristenko had responded positively to the construction of additional nuclear reactors for the Koodankulam project.

Today, President Putin indicated Russia's willingness to expand its ties in the nuclear energy sphere with India but hinted that it will abide by the international rules on this issue. Responding to specific queries on the subject at a special Press briefing, Mr. Putin spoke approvingly of India's commitment to separate its civilian and military nuclear facilities, its decision to adopt a legislation to prevent nuclear proliferation and the steps it is taking to build relations with the international community, including members of the NSG.

"We see India as a strategic partner and we will work to ensure that India will cope with all tests and programmes it is addressing, including civilian nuclear energy," President Putin said.

He maintained that as India settles its difficulties with other countries, Russia hopes to get an opportunity to "participate and contribute" to its projects of civilian nuclear energy.

Dr. Singh, on his part, emphasised that energy security is a priority area for future cooperation between the two countries, given India’s growing energy requirements and the importance of nuclear energy as a clean and viable alternative energy source. Indian officials, however, did not divulge any details of the Prime Minister's discussion with President Putin on this particular issue. All that External Affairs spokesperson Navtej Sarna said was: "Though no specific figures were discussed about additional reactors, both sides agreed there are good prospects for expanding cooperation in all sectors of civilian nuclear energy."

The 44-member NSG, which includes Russia, China and the US, has voluntarily agreed to coordinate export controls of nuclear technology to non-nuclear countries and governments which do not subject themselves to international controls. Although Russia is already supplying two reactors for the Koodankulam project and it is looking to play a larger role in this area, it would rather wait till the international restrictions on technology transfer to India are lifted.

Putin to visit India

Moscow, December 6
Russian President Vladimir Putin today accepted an invitation from Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to visit India. The invitation was extended by Dr Manmohan Singh during his summit-level talks with the Russian leader at the Grand Kremlin Palace here.