IAEA chief favours Indo-US N-deal

Mohamed El Baradei, director of the International Atomic Energy Agency welcomed a nuclear agreement between India and the United States on Thursday, saying it would boost non-proliferation efforts.

"This agreement is an important step towards satisfying India's growing need for energy, including nuclear technology and fuel, as an engine for development," IAEA chief Mohamed El Baradei said.

India US Nuclear Tango

He also said it would also be a step forward towards universalisation of the international safeguards regime and would make India an important partner in the non-proliferation regime.

ElBaradei called the deal a milestone and timely agreement "...to consolidate the non-proliferation regime, combat nuclear terrorism and strengthen nuclear safety.

He considered the agreement in favour of both India and the international community.