In post-NSG statement, France ducks ENR ban on India: France has sought to reassure India that its recent endorsement of tighter rules for the export of enrichment and reprocessing equipment (ENR) at the Nuclear Suppliers Group “in no way undermines the parameters of our bilateral cooperation” in the nuclear field. France is committed to the full implementation of its cooperation agreement on the development of peaceful uses of nuclear energy signed on September 30, 2008.
Russia sets up Arctic forces: Russia will set up Arctic forces to help protect the nation's interests in the energy-rich region. Two Army brigades would be deployed in the territories beyond the Arctic Circle. New submarine-launched intercontinental ballistic missile, Bulova, was ready for deployment on the new-generation Borei-class nuclear submarines that would operate in the Arctic. The Russian Navy has also drawn up plans to deploy more surface battleships in Arctic ports to protect sea routes along Russia's 22,600-km long Arctic coastline.
India Receives International Recognition to be a full adherent to OECD Council Act related to Mutual Acceptance of Data (MAD): India received the international recognition to be a full adherent to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Council Act related to Mutual Acceptance of Data (MAD) in the Assessment of Chemicals. Thus India joins the part of chemicals programme related to MAD, with all of the rights and obligations of OECD member countries. This international recognition was long and eagerly awaited by industry and related ministries of the government. The full adherent status for India came after several cycles of rigorous evaluation processes by OECD followed by multiple discussion and coordination by OECD Council with the OECD member countries. A full adherent status requires a consensus among all the OECD countries difficult to obtain in any circumstances especially when it impacts health and environment of countries involved.
Renewal of Long Term Agreement for supply of iron ore to Japan and South Korea through Murphy-Meisgeier Type Indicator for Children (MMITC) Limited: The Union Cabinet approved the proposal to renew the Long Term Agreements and has authorised MMTC to supply iron ore (lumps and fines) of grade +64% Fe content to Japanese Steel Mills (JSMs) and POSCO of South Korea for another 3 years (i.e. 2011-2014) under Long Term Agreements entered into by MMTC earlier.
Cairn Vedanta deal gets cabinet nod: The government gave conditional approval to Scottish explorer Cairn Energy Plcs. plan to sell control in its Indian arm to the London-listed Vedanta Resources. The decision could help repair India's image as an investment destination among foreign investors.
