WASHINGTON, Oct 23: The US has “categorically ruled out” any kind of negotiations with Pakistan on India-type civil nuclear deal, terming the reports in American media “completely false”.
“Let me state categorically, we have not entered into negotiations on 123 Agreement with Pakistan nor are we seeking an exception for Pakistan within the nuclear supplier group in order to facilitate civil nuclear exports,” a senior Administration official said after US President Barack Obama met Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif here yesterday.
The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, was responding to questions on reports appearing in the American media that US was considering a civil nuclear deal with Pakistan.
“There is no such thing as a nuclear deal which has been reported in the media is some short of a civilian nuclear package alleged to be something like that the US concluded with India 10 years ago.
“Let me just assure you categorically that the press allegations of a 123 agreement with Pakistan are completely false,” the official added.
Pakistan has made it clear its interest in civilian nuclear cooperation and it is called socio-economic imperative because of energy shortfalls, the official noted.
Leaders of the two countries, however, did discuss on Pakistan’s nuclear safety and security which is an ongoing discussion.
The 123 Agreement signed between the US and India is known as Indo-US nuclear deal. The framework for this agreement was done in 2005. (PTI)
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