Progress made in negotiations with U.S. on nuke issue: MEA

India and the U.S. 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 in New Delhi 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 Mr. Obama and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 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. Watch video : Obama's visit will strengthen ties across full spectrum of Indo-U.S. relation: MEA Noting that “progress has been made” during the previous negotiations, the Spokesperson said, India was looking forward to “effectively” work with the U.S. in the “extremely important” nuclear field. The two sides are working hard to have “excellent” outcomes during the visit of Mr. Obama, who will have a tight schedule including talks with Mr. Modi, attending Republic Day parade as the Chief Guest, meeting with business leaders, joint radio talk with Mr. Modi and a quick visit to Agra to see the iconic Taj Mahal.