Bush says nuclear deal important for both India and US

Wed, Jul 9 10:01 AM

V S Chandrasekar Toyako, July 9 (PTI) Against the backdrop of the political turmoil in India, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today discussed progress on the Indo-US nuclear deal with President George W Bush who said the deal is important for both the countries. Meeting in Hotel Windsor on Mt Poromoi hours before the Left parties would be formally withdrawing support to the UPA government on the nuclear deal, both Singh and Bush expressed mutual admiration for each other and spoke of the need for closer relationship between the two countries.

After their 50-minute meeting, the two leaders appeared before the press in a relaxed mood and displayed a lot of personal warmth. The turbulent political developments back home did not appeared to have any impact on the Prime Minister, who has staked a great deal on the nuclear agreement, when Singh said he was satisfied about the state of bilateral relationship which has truly acquired the characteristics of a genuine strategic partnership.

The leaders made the remarks after a meeting but took no questions. Bush, who first spoke, said "We talked about the nuclear deal, how important it is for our respective countries.

" Singh in his remarks did not refer to the deal but said the two countries have made progress in all areas including nuclear, defence, space co-operation and education exchanges. PTI.

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