By IANS
New Delhi : Talks between India and France on civil nuclear energy cooperation are complete with both adopting an “operating agreement” ahead of President Nicolas Sarkozy’s trip to India this week, highly placed sources said Monday.
But nuclear commerce between the two sides can begin only after a go-ahead from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on an India specific safeguards pact and after the 45-country Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) amends rules in New Delhi’s favour, the sources said.
“France can also help India in nuclear commerce as this is one way of combating climate change and reducing carbon emissions,” said one source who did not wish to be identified.
Atomic Energy Commission chairman Anil Kakodkar had last week held a crucial round of discussions with French officials with clear indications that an accord was ready to be signed.
This is not the first time France has indicated willingness to supply nuclear energy to India.
Last month, French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner met Indian leaders and discussed the possibilities of civil nuclear cooperation and addressing the country’s huge market for nuclear energy.
As a world leader in civilian nuclear technology, France depends on nuclear power for 83 percent of its energy requirements.
Sarkozy, scheduled to arrive here Friday on a curtailed two-day visit, will be accompanied by a large delegation comprising six ministers and MPs, 50 corporate honchos and 20 representatives from institutions of higher education.
But there is no indication if Carla Bruni, the president’s much talked about current companion, would accompany him.
Business and official delegation talks and signing of agreements in the defence, energy, sustainable development and pharmaceutical sectors as well as scientific areas such as nano-technology and neurosciences are expected Friday.
Trade between India and France has risen steadily and currently stands at 4.4 billion euros. According to the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), France is India’s fifth largest trading partner in the European Union.
President Sarkozy will be the chief guest at the annual Republic Day parade. Later in the evening, he will attend President Pratibha Patil’s reception before flying off to Paris.
“(Sarkozy) has to rush back because he is to unveil a major reforms package,” the source added.