U.S. welcomes Indo-Sri Lanka nuclear pact

The United States has welcomed the signing of civil nuclear cooperation agreement between India and Sri Lanka, saying it is consistent with IAEA safeguards and other international standards and practices. State Department spokesperson Jen Psaki said on Tuesday at a press briefing, "We welcome regional cooperation on nuclear energy that is consistent with IAEA  safeguards and other international standards and practices.” Psaki refrained from making any further comment on the deal. On Monday, India and Sri Lanka signed a civil nuclear cooperation agreement, the first such deal signed by Sri Lanka with any foreign country, reflecting the new Lankan government’s pro-India approach. According to the nuclear deal, India will assist Sri Lanka in developing its civil nuclear energy infrastructure, including sharing of resources, training of personnel and extending expertise. It will also facilitate cooperation in radioactive waste management and nuclear and radiological disaster mitigation and environmental protection. The transcript of the briefing is as follows

QUESTION: What’s your take on the agreement which has been signed between India and Sri Lanka on (inaudible) nuclear deal?

MS. PSAKI: Sure. One second, Lalit. Well, we are aware of the announcement. We welcome regional cooperation on nuclear energy that is consistent with IAEA safeguards and other international standards and practices. Beyond that, I don’t have additional details to readout. I’d certainly refer you to those countries for additional information on the agreement.