IAEA Director General Mohamed ElBaradei welcomes the announcement of the nuclear cooperation agreement reached today between India and the United States.

"This agreement is an important step towards satisfying India′s growing need for energy, including nuclear technology and fuel, as an engine for development. It would also bring India closer as an important partner in the non-proliferation regime," he said. "It would be a milestone, timely for ongoing efforts to consolidate the non-proliferation regime, combat nuclear terrorism and strengthen nuclear safety."

"The agreement would assure India of reliable access to nuclear technology and nuclear fuel. It would also be a step forward towards universalisation of the international safeguards regime," Dr. ElBaradei said. "This agreement would serve the interests of both India and the international community."