PM-LD JAPAN 2LST

Singh, however, said both countries would benefit from
an agreement that provides a long-term and stable basis of
cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
This, he said, will contribute towards our energy
security requirements and will also help in the global efforts
to combat climate change.
On India's refusal to sign Non-Proliferation Treaty
(NPT), Singh cited New Delhi's impeccable non-proliferation
record which is recognised by the international community and
said New Delhi is committed to maintaining unilateral and
voluntary moratorium on nuclear explosive testing.
"India has been steadfast in its support for global
and non-discriminatory nuclear disarmament in a time-bound
framework," he said, adding "We are ready to work with Japan
and other like minded countries in realising the vision of a
nuclear weapon free world".
Sources said that interest for civil nuclear
cooperation was first expressed by Japan, apparently because
its companies are very keen.
India sees this as a crucial development considering
that Japan, the only country to have witnessed a massive
atomic attack, has been very sensitive on nuclear issue and
New Delhi is not a signatory of NPT.
"Something that used to divide us earlier, now unites
us," a source said while referring to the nuclear issue.
Japan had reacted very strongly when India conducted
nuclear tests in 1998.
India feels that the progress on negotiations for the
nuclear deal will be slow, given Japan's sensitivities. PTI