India, SL initiate talks on civil nuclear cooperation

The Ministry of External Affairs has issued a statement saying that it held a first round of talks with Sri Lanka on comprehensive civil nuclear cooperation in New Delhi. The statement said the Indian delegation was led by Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India and included representatives from the Department of Atomic Energy of India. The Sri Lankan delegation was led by Mr I Ansar, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of Sri Lanka and included representatives from the Atomic Energy Authority and the Ministry of Power and Energy of Sri Lanka. [caption id=“attachment_489047” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  Reuters[/caption] Both sides had reportedly exchanged views on all aspects of civil nuclear cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the use of nuclear technology for peaceful purposes to mutually benefit the people in both countries. It was also agreed that the two sides would work towards a comprehensive Agreement on Bilateral Civil Nuclear Cooperation. Discussions included, inter alia, training of officials, nuclear safety and response to nuclear accidents. The next meeting is scheduled to be held in Sri Lanka in the first half of 2013.