‘India to discuss relaxation in US export control regime on dual use items with Obama’

NEW DELHI - India is expecting a breakthrough on the issue of relaxation of US export control regime on dual-use items during the upcoming visit of the United States President, Barack Obama, this week.

The Indian Ambassador to the U.S. Meera Shankar has indicated that relaxation in US export control regime on dual use items is likely to figure prominently in talks with Obama.

Interacting with reporters in the national capital today, Indian Ambassador to the US, Meera Shankar, said the US is undertaking an India-specific review of its policy and the two sides are working on this issue to fine tune it to India’s benefit.

Presently, US export control laws prohibit transfer of dual-use items.

Under the export control regime, the US has a list of entities whose export to certain countries like India requires clearances.

In the case of India, technology in 10 of the 16 broad areas, including chemicals and biological materials, for the civil industries are affected by this.

These technologies fall under the categories non-proliferation, national security, missile technologies and crime control by the US administration. India wants such items to be allowed to be transfered without the requirement of clearances.

The issue has been a major area of concern for India and is expected to figure prominently during the talks between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Obama on Monday. (ANI)