India, U.S. companies discuss nuclear sales

The Associated Press
Sep 11, 2008

NEW DELHI: India has begun talks with U.S. companies on purchasing nuclear technology and equipment, although a U.S.-Indian civil nuclear cooperation accord is still awaiting approval in Congress, an Indian official said Thursday. India, which has been subject to a nuclear trade ban since it tested its first atomic weapon in 1974, wasted no time in going after sensitive technology after the ban was lifted Saturday by the 45-nation Nuclear Suppliers Group of countries that supply nuclear material and technology. The decision by the suppliers' group was a prerequisite for approval of a separate U.S.-Indian nuclear accord by Congress, where time is rapidly running out before an election recess. Foreign Ministry spokesman Navtej Sarna told reporters the "government is taking steps to realize commercial cooperation with foreign partners in this field" following the decision by the Nuclear Suppliers Group.