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Home  » News » India seeks Belgian, Hungarian support for N-deal

India seeks Belgian, Hungarian support for N-deal

Source: PTI
November 04, 2006 01:31 IST
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India on Friday sought the support of Belgium and Hungary, members of the Nuclear Suppliers Group, for civil nuclear cooperation with the international community.

The matter was taken up when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh held talks with his Belgian counterpart Guy Verhofstadt on a wide range of issues, particularly covering energy and trade and investment.

The issue was discussed, External Affairs Ministry spokesman Navtej Sarna told reporters when asked whether the civil nuclear matter came up during the parleys.

On Belgium's response, he said, "They are already aware of our concern. They are aware of the entire background of the Indo-US nuclear deal. They are aware of the legislative processes underway."

He said Belgium is aware that the matter relating to Indo-US nuclear deal could come up in the 45-nation NSG.

Three days back, Belgian Ambassador Patrick de Beyter said his country will adopt a 'constructive' approach with regard to India's quest for civil nuclear cooperation with the international community.

The nuclear issue also came up for discussion when visiting Hungarian Foreign Minister Kinga Goncz held talks with External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee.

"Energy cooperation and civilian nuclear energy, particularly the role that Hungary can play in the NSG, came up for discussion," Sarna said.

As per the Indo-US deal, clinched in March, the NSG, which includes Belgium, is required to adjust its guidelines to allow the international community to have civil nuclear cooperation with India.

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