The government today said former President Dr A P J Abdul Kalam does not fall in the category of persons exempted from security screening at U S airports.

However, in keeping with his stature, US authorities extend courtesies to him at their airports including escort and private screening.

This information was given in a written reply by the External Affairs Minister, Mr. S M Krishna in the Rajya Sabha.

Mr. Krishna said that his ministry and Indian Mission in Washington provide advance information on Dr Kalam's travel scheduled to US authorities so that airport procedures are completed smoothly and with due courtesies.

The External Affairs Minister said the government accords diplomatic privileges and courtesies to all foreign diplomats in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. This applies to the visitors from the United States of America also.