November 17, 2009 7:01 PM

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PM-Harper hold talks on issues to expand & diversify cooperation ahead of delegation level talks

The Canadian Prime Minister, Mr. Steven Harper today assured full cooperation to India in tracking down the links of Canadian born LeT operative Tahawwur Rana who is the accomplice of David Headley believed to be among the elements behind the Mumbai terror attack.The issue was raised by the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh with his Canadian counterpart in the delegation level talks today. In reply to a question, the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh said that the two sides have decided to expand the area of cooperation in dealing with the menace of terrorism posing threat to international peace and security. In reply to another question, Dr. Singh said that the government will ensure the safety and security of nuclear installations in the country. This assumes importance in the wake of alert sounded by the government for the protection and safety of nuclear installations. Ahead of the delegation level talks with the Prime Minister at Hydrabad House later this evening, the visiting Canadian Prime Minister held wide ranging discussions with Indian leaders to expand and diversify cooperation between the two countries. The focus remained on giving push to the bilateral trade which is at present only five billion US dollars.The two countries are likely to sign a number of pacts after the summit level talks between Dr. Manmohan Singh and Stephan Harper. They include one in the field of civil nuclear cooperation besides an MoU on culture. The two countries are also expected to announce launch of feasibility study for a Free Trade Agreement when the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh meets his Canadian counterpart Stephen Harper for the delegation-level talks.Mr. Harper had a busy schedule during the day. He called on the President and the vice President to exchange views on the issues of mutual interest. The External Affairs Minister, Mr. S.M. Krishna, UPA Chairperson, Mrs. Sonia Gandhi and the leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Mr. L.K. Advani also held discussions with him on a host of issues of regional and international importance.During his stay in India, he will also visit Akshardham Temple in Delhi and Golden Temple in Amritsar.

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