Indian Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee and United States Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on Thursday held in-depth discussions on the India-United States civilian nuclear deal that comes up in the Senate in a few days.
NEW YORK: Indian Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee and United States Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on Thursday held in-depth discussions on the India-United States civilian nuclear deal that comes up in the Senate in a few days.
During their half-an-hour meeting, the two leaders exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual concern. Officials briefing reporters did not give details but said the meeting was held in a cordial atmosphere.
Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran and Indian Ambassador to the United Nations Nirupam Sen were present during the discussions that covered a range of bilateral issues.
Saran held discussions on all aspects of bilateral relations, including the crucial civilian agreement, with top officials of Bush administration and leading members of Congress.
Saran called on the Chairman of the House International Relations Henry Hyde and is said to have had a joint meeting with Republican Majority Leader William First and Minority Leader Harry Reid.
The meetings assume significance as the Senate is expected to take up the civilian nuclear legislation prior to its expected adjournment on September 29.
Saran also held a meeting with House International Relations Committee Ranking Member Tom Lantos.
The foreign secretary, prior to his departure back to New York, met Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Robert Joseph and Deputy National Security Adviser for International Economic Relations David McCormick.
The decks are supposed to have been cleared in terms of coming to an agreement with Conservative law makers who were opposed to Title Two of the Senate bill that dealt with an additional protocol between the US and the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Congressional sources maintain that efforts are on to sort out other aspects of the legislation that mainly include the length of debate and the amendments that could be offered on the floor of the Senate.
When an agreement is reached, the Senate Majority Leader will make a formal announcement on tabling the legislation on the floor of the House.
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