Negotiations on the sale of uranium to India for its nuclear power programme is likely to be the focus of delegation level talks today between India and Australia. Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard, who is on 3 day visit to India will hold delegation level talks with her counterpart Dr. Manmohan Singh. The decision to sell uranium is aimed at boosting trade and diplomatic ties between the two countries.

AIR correspondent adds that Australia had previously ruled out exporting the ore as India has not signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, but Ms Gillard reversed the policy last year in an effort to improve ties with one of Asia's biggest economies.
Ms Gillard this morning was given a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

Talking to media, Ms. Gillard said that Australia and India will cooperate in the field of energy. Both the countries will strengthen their economic and cultural ties.

Besides delegation talks with Prime Minister Dr Singh today, Ms. Julia Gillard will also call on President Pranab Mukherjee. Australian Prime Minister will also meet UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna and Leader of Opposition Sushma Swaraj.