Melbourne: External Affairs Minister SM
Krishna Friday flew back to New Delhi after attending the
seventh round of Foreign Minsters` framework dialogue during
which he discussed regional and bilateral issues with his
Australian counterpart Kevin Rudd and other leaders.
During his three-day official visit, Krishna met Rudd,
several senior officials and leaders of the country including
new Victorian premier Ted Beilluei and Energy and Resources
Minister Martin Ferguson.
During his meetings with the two ministers, Krishna
raised the issue of India`s standing request to Australia to
sell uranium to it to generate clean energy.
While Australian government refused to reverse its
policy as India is a non signatory of Non-Proliferation
Treaty, it also embarrassed Krishna over the non payment of
dues to Australian companies for Delhi Commonwealth Games
related work.
Krishna yesterday assured Australia that he would go
back and raise the issue with the Sports Ministry.
Over Australia`s stand on uranium, Krishna said he was
not disappointed over its refusal as India understood
Australian stand was not India-specific and that it was well
respected.
Krishna also raised the issue of safety and security
of Indian student in this country and expressed his
satisfaction over the efforts taken by the Australian
government.
PTI
