What's new

Australia puts tough condition on uranium sale to India

Nuclear pact with India to be ready soon, says Australia - The Hindu

Updated: October 28, 2015 03:57 IST
Australia said on Tuesday that the civil nuclear agreement allowing it to supply uranium to India and the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) would be in place by the target deadline of December.

Speaking to reporters, visiting Trade and Investment Minister Andrew Robb said the Australian Parliament was expected to ratify the Nuclear Cooperation Agreement that the two countries had signed in September 2014. Australia has about a third of world’s recoverable uranium resources and exports nearly 7,000 tonnes of it a year.

“The CECA will principally focus on services and investments and will also have a respectable goods package and it will, as any such deal must, respect the fact that still 600 million Indians live on less than $2 a day… those sensitivities will be in it,” Mr. Robb said. In the last 12 months, this is Mr. Robb’s fifth visit to India — during which he met among other Ministers Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

He said that though outstanding issues remained on the CECA, his team of negotiators was confident of concluding it by December.

Senior officials said meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart Malcolm Turnbull were expected on the sidelines of the upcoming G20 Summit next month in Turkey and that they might make an announcement there.

Investor sentiment
Speaking about the global investor sentiment, the Minister said all eyes were on India, which in the last 12 months had been the greatest recipient of foreign direct investment and was growing faster than China. “I travel the world and I find it is awash with cheap money and with nervous investors, investments into bonds have given negative returns to a lot of whom …. and where nervous investors are putting their money is symptomatic of the political, economic environment driving growth ... if you look at the numbers, the investment community has a lot of confidence in India.”

Freedom of expression
Responding to a question on the possible impact on investments of the concerns currently being raised in certain quarters about “threats to freedom of expression,” the Minister said that in a democracy different views keep a government honest. “When change is occurring it is not surprising that people are not comfortable and find all sorts of ways to express themselves … It requires governments to make every effort to answer their concerns, maintain its support of them and their mandate,” he said.
 
.
He said that though outstanding issues remained on the CECA, his team of negotiators was confident of concluding it by December.

Well lets see what comes of it and if Aussies are going to be stubborn on anything stupid.
 
.
Well lets see what comes of it and if Aussies are going to be stubborn on anything stupid.

Updated: September 2, 2015 16:37 IST
“Australia is committed to fulfilling the objective of Prime Ministers Tony Abbott and Narendra Modi to conclude a CECA by the end of 2015 said Australian Defence Minister Kevin Andrews.
 
.
India, Australia nuclear deal to come into force | The Indian Express

A year after India and Australia signed the civilian nuclear cooperation agreement during then Australian PM Tony Abbott’s visit to New Delhi, his successor, Australian PM Malcolm Turnbull told PM Narendra Modi Sunday that procedure for the pact has been completed and can now be implemented. This opens doors for the much-needed uranium supply for India’s nuclear reactors.

After the meeting, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Vikas Swarup described it as “milestone achievement” as the two PMs announced completion of procedures for the agreement.


“The PM thanked the Australian PM and said the nuclear agreement is a milestone and a source of trust and confidence. With the completion of procedures, including administrative arrangements, the Civil Nuclear Agreement will now enter into force,” he said.

This was Modi’s first meeting with Turnbull after he took over. Sources described the meeting to be “very constructive” and pointed out to the result-oriented conversation in their first-ever bilateral meeting.

It may be recalled that former Australian PM Julia Gillard paid a state visit to India in October 2012. The decision of Australian government to supply uranium to India was taken during her time and on September 5, 2014, India and Australia signed a MoU for “Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy” during Abbott’s visit.
The significant part of the civil nuclear cooperation agreement was that Australia agreed to become ‘a long-term reliable supplier of uranium to India’.

Right now, Australia is considered to have the largest reserve of recoverable uranium. World Nuclear Association and Australian government say that Australia ranks third in terms of production of uranium. Kazakhstan and Canada produce more than Australia. If it opens new mines, which it plans to, its production may increase, and it might become the top producer in a few years. Australia produces uranium basically to export as it does not operate nuclear power plants. So, Australia may become the most important uranium supplier to India.

The uranium supply is critical to India’s plans for the nuclear energy expansion. The current nuclear expansion plan needs uranium and India has concluded agreements with Canada and Kazakhstan among others.
 
.
The Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull MP being received by the Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (Independent Charge) and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Rajiv Pratap Rudy, on his arrival, in New Delhi on April 09, 2017.
s20170409100838.jpg
 
.
Prime Minister's Office
10-April, 2017 15:12 IST
Press Statement by Prime Minister during the State visit of Prime Minister of Australia to India


His Excellency Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull,
Members of Media,


Excellency,

I am delighted to welcome you on your first ever visit to India. Just last month, we witnessed a thrilling conclusion to the Border-Gavaskar trophy. In my speech at the Australian Parliament in 2014 I had spoken of legendary Bradman and Tendulkar. Today, Virat Kohli in India and Steven Smith in Australia are shaping the young brigades of cricket. I hope your visit to India is as productive as it has been for Steven Smith's batting, the other Australian Captain.

Excellency,

I vividly recall our meetings on the sidelines of G-20. They have always reflected a strong sense of convergence and purpose. I particularly appreciate your active interest in advancing the substance of our engagement. The journey of our cooperation is firmly on course. Under your leadership, our relationship has touched new milestones. And, your visit gives us an opportunity to shape new priorities in our strategic partnership.

Excellency,

The waters of the Indian Ocean remind us of our linked histories. They are also a pointer to our connected destinies. The values and principles of democracy and rule of law are common to both our nations. Today, the vast scope of opportunities in our ties is defined by a strong desire for economic prosperity by 1.25 billion people of India, and Australia's capacities and strengths.

Friends,

In our discussions today, Prime Minister and I reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations. We took a number of forward-looking decisions to further strengthen our partnership, including the decision to soon hold the next round of negotiations on our Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement. In a lighter vein I am, of course, glad that our decisions are not subject to the D.R.S. review system.


Friends,


Both India and Australia recognize the central value of education and innovation in the prosperity of our societies. It is no surprise, therefore, that cooperation in the field of education and research is one of the most important aspects of our engagement. Prime Minister and I have just inaugurated the TERI-DEAKIN Research Centre on Nano and Bio Technology, which is a classic example of the kind of cutting-edge science and technology cooperation that is happening between our two countries. The Australia-India Research Fund of nearly 100 million dollars has focused on collaborative research projects in the areas such as nano-technology, smart cities, infrastructure, agriculture and disease control. Our joint development of bananas fortified with Vitamin A has entered the phase of field trials. Our scientists are also collaborating on developing more nutritious and hardy varieties of pulses. These are just two examples of our outstanding scientific cooperation firmly rooted in tangible outcomes that will improve the lives of millions including our farmers. I also extend a warm welcome to the large delegation of Vice Chancellors and Heads of Vocational Training Institutions that is accompanying Prime Minister. A number of institution-to-institution tie-ups have been concluded during this visit. Student exchanges are an important element of bilateral education cooperation. Australia is home to more than 60,000 Indian students. Increasing number of Australian students are coming to study in India. Responding to the aspirations of India's youth, building world class institutions in India is one of the objectives of my government. Prime Minister Turnbull and I discussed ways by which Australian Universities could connect and contribute to this goal.

Friends,

Prime Minister and I share a conviction that our economic growth and prosperity must be gentle on the environment. We are happy that our dialogue and cooperation in other forms of energy including renewable energy is on the up-swing. I would also like to thank Prime Minister for Australia's decision to join the International Solar Alliance. And, With the passing of legislation in the Australian Parliament with bi-partisan support, Australia is now ready to export Uranium to India.


Friends,

Prime Minister and I recognize that our future is deeply tied to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. We, therefore, agree on the need for a secure and rule based Indo-Pacific. We are also aware that in this globalized world, challenges like terrorism and cyber security, extend beyond the boundaries of our region. And, therefore, require global strategy and solutions. Indeed, Prime Minister's understanding and insight into regional and global issues brings a new dimension to our cooperation on matters that concern us both. Our cooperation in the area of defence and security has reached new heights. Our maritime exercises and exchanges have been productive. Our bilateral mechanisms on counter-terrorism and trans-national crimes are functioning well. I am particularly pleased that we have been able to conclude an MOU on Security Cooperation during this visit. We also agree that strong regional institutions are necessary for peace, prosperity and a sense of balance in our region. We would, therefore, actively work to cooperate more closely with members of the East Asia Summit and the Indian Ocean Rim countries to pursue our common interests.


Friends,

A major pillar of strength in our partnership is the connect between our societies. Australia is also home to nearly half-a-million people of Indian origin. Their prosperity and vibrant culture enrich our partnership. A very successful Festival of India called "Confluence” was held in many cities of Australia last year. I thank Prime Minister for all the help and support accorded to the Festival by the Australian Government.


Excellency,

India and Australia have made major strides in our bilateral relations in recent years. In months and years ahead, we only see promise and opportunities for our two nations. Our strong and vibrant strategic partnership is of course important for the security and well-being of our societies. But, it is also a major factor for peace, stability and security in our region. With these words, Excellency, let me welcome you once again to India, and wish you a fruitful and productive stay.


Thank you.

Thank you very much.


****
 
.
India should show Aussies their bank statements, show them how much you got
 
.
The Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull paying homage at the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi, at Rajghat, in Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100859.jpg


The Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull paying floral tributes at the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi, at Rajghat, in Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100858.jpg


The Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull inspecting the Guard of Honour, at the Ceremonial Reception, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100857.jpg

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi welcomes the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull, at the Ceremonial Reception, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100852.jpg

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi welcomes the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull, at the Ceremonial Reception, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100853.jpg


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi welcomes the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull, at the Ceremonial Reception, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100854.jpg


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi introducing the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull to the Indian dignitaries, at the ceremonial reception, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100855.jpg

The Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull introducing the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi to the Australian dignitaries, at the ceremonial reception, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100856.jpg
 
.
Not directly related to uranium sale per se, but Indians should re-evalute their relationship in light of the following:

http://www.smh.com.au/federal-polit...-free-trade-deal-for-now-20170410-gvhrpb.html

Malcolm Turnbull kills off Tony Abbott's India free trade deal, for now


62 reading now




Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull says a potentially lucrative free trade agreement with India is now on the backburner, effectively declaring Tony Abbott's dream of an express negotiation phase had been unrealistic.

On his first official visit to the economic powerhouse in waiting, Mr Turnbull has also warned businesses they must be realistic about what deals can be achieved with India.






"It is a process that will take some time, you know, India has a long tradition of protection, particularly for agriculture, of course we are a huge agricultural exporter, so we want to have open markets for everything, but in particular for agriculture, so it will take time. But the important thing is to persevere and I think that you can see that the trade between our two countries is growing all the time, there are more opportunities arising," Mr Turnbull said.

"We will pursue continued growth in trade between Australia and India, there's no point setting a target for an agreement without having regard to the quality. You know you can sign an agreement anytime, it's a question of whether it's got the provisions that make it valuable and worthwhile from Australia's point of view," he said.

The downbeat statement - something of a reality check - accompanied renewed hopes of increased Australian involvement in India's energy market due to increased exports of coal from the Adani mine, as well as new exports of uranium, natural gas, and renewable energy technology.

On the first day of his state visit to India, the Australian Prime Minister talked up the "extraordinary achievements" of India and flagged increased Australian access to the country's burgeoning energy and education markets but admitted that sticking points in bilateral talks meant an actual deal was some time away.

  • Share on Facebook SHARE
  • Share on Twitter TWEET
1491819375233.jpg

Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, India on Monday. Photo: Andrew Meares
"India is an extraordinary achievement, so diverse, had never existed as a single nation before 1947, 22 official languages, all the religions of the world, 11 different writing scripts and yet, one nation here in India, created since 1947: an extraordinary achievement and growing now at over 7 per cent per annum, the fastest growth rate of any comparable country," he said.

Mr Turnbull said Australia was second only to the United states in delivering higher education services to India and by advocating free trade, competition and high quality services, hoped to become No.1.

  • Share on Facebook SHARE
  • Share on Twitter TWEET
1491819375233.jpg

Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull is received by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Palace in New Delhi. Photo: Andrew Meares
Free trade talks that had been fast-tracked under the Abbott government have recently ground to a halt, with both sides claiming a "stocktake" is under way.

However, officials admit India's focus on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership talks involving the major Asian economies, has taken precedence.

  • Share on Facebook SHARE
  • Share on Twitter TWEET
1491819375233.jpg

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull arrives in New Delhi, India on Sunday. Photo: Andrew Meares
Among the sticking points between New Delhi and Canberra is India's desire to achieve freer labour mobility, allowing Indian workers to access higher-paid jobs in Australia. Australia has been reluctant to grant that concession, and has been eager to gain greater access to the lucrative services sector in India.

Higher education remains a strong export for Australia with India being its prime purchaser.

More than 60,000 Indians studied in Australia last year adding some $2.3 billion to Australia's national income.

But Australia's universities and vocational training providers believe that can be dramatically increased, especially as India has announced plans to upskill as many as 400 million workers as it attempts to reshape its economy and build a vibrant new manufacturing sector.

India's economy is regarded as the world's fastest-growing among developing economies, at more than 7 per cent, but sceptics note this strong growth is coming off a relatively low base.

The Modi government is eager to lift economic growth into double figures in a bid to provide better quality jobs and services to a growing middle-class hungry for first-world goods and services - especially in health and education.

Mr Turnbull was expected to meet Adani company representatives on Monday evening to discuss the giant Carmichael mine in Queensland's Galilee basin.

With energy security an ever-present issue, India is looking for assurances from Australia that the colossal and highly controversial coal mine can proceed.

Similar assurances are also likely to be sought regarding Australian supplies of natural gas and uranium to India.
 
.
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100870.jpg

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100871.jpg

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100872.jpg


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull, at the delegation level talks at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100873.jpg
 
.
did the indians ask him about the submarine design leaks.

they made the indian navy the laughing stock of the world
 
.
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull at the joint press statement, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100883.jpg


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull at the joint press statement, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100882.jpg


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull at the joint press statement, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100881.jpg


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull witnessing the exchange of MoUs between the two nations, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100880.jpg

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull witnessing the exchange of MoUs between the two nations, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100879.jpg


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull being given a traditional welcome on their visit to the Akshardham Temple, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100890.jpg

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull signing the Visitors’ Book on their visit to the Akshardham Temple, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100892.jpg


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull at the Akshardham Temple, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100891.jpg


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull at the Akshardham Temple, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100889.jpg
 
.
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100870.jpg

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100871.jpg

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100872.jpg


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull, at the delegation level talks at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100873.jpg

what is the point of showing these pictures, is Modi the only PM who ever met Aussie PM
 
.
The Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull calling on the Vice President, Shri M. Hamid Ansari, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100893.jpg


The Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull calling on the Vice President, Shri M. Hamid Ansari, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100894.jpg


The Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull calling on the Vice President, Shri M. Hamid Ansari, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100895.jpg
 
.
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull travelling to Akshardham temple in Delhi Metro, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100905.jpg

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull travelling to Akshardham temple in Delhi Metro, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100906.jpg


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull travelling to Akshardham temple in Delhi Metro, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100907.jpg

The Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Malcolm Turnbull meeting the President, Shri Pranab Mukherjee, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on April 10, 2017.
s20170410100908.jpg
 
.

Pakistan Defence Latest Posts

Back
Top Bottom