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India, France discuss nuclear co-operation

India has held discussions with France on the possibility of co-operation in the field of nuclear energy, Minister of State for External Affairs Vasundhara Raje Scindia informed the Rajya Sabha Thursday.

In a written reply during question hour, Scindia said an Indian delegation recently visited Paris to discuss nuclear export control issues. The ambit of such a co-operation based on the nuclear policies of the two countries and their international commitments in this regard was discussed at the meeting.

Responding to another question, she said the government has studied reports regarding the construction of a missile boat by Pakistan with China's assistance. She said India has made it clear that such developments pose a threat to its security and are not conducive to the maintenance of peace and stability in the region.

The minister informed that India has consistently indicated its willingness to engage in a constructive dialogue with Pakistan on all issues, including "peace and security'', based on mutual respect and regard for each other's concerns.

The government was also aware of the transfer of missiles and missile technology by China to Pakistan. ''Our concern about such transfers are well-known and have been conveyed during bilateral discussions with various countries,'' she said.

India has also conveyed to China its concern arising from the security environment in the region and the importance of paying adequate attention to each other's concerns on vital issues affecting security and territorial integrity of both the countries, she added.

Scindia further informed the members that the government was aware of the ongoing military co-operation between Russia and China, including the sale of ships which have the capacity to carry the supersonic anti-ship missiles, SSN-22.

UNI

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