The United Kingdom on Tuesday backed the India-United States nuclear agreement, stating that it was a good deal for India and that London is keen to see that the deal is concluded.
"Britain is keen to see the deal conclude. It is a good deal for India in the long term, which makes sense for both sides," British High Commissioner Richard Stagg told reporters on the sidelines of a public lecture.
"The deal will help India in its long-term interest on energy supply, but at the same time, it cannot be the golden bullet to solve all of India's energy problems. It would, however, be the building block for ensuring a strong environment of energy supply," he said.
Stagg added that Britain and India will focus on areas of collaboration, including climate change, during the forthcoming summit talks between the prime ministers of India and Britain in New Delhi in January.
To a question on the delivery of Advanced Jet Trainers Hawks to India, Stagg said he was happy over the delivery of the first two aircraft recently, with more to be delivered in February 2008.
"It is a long-term programme and the Hawks are very good aircraft," he said.
Two of the 66 AJTs reached India recently. Of the 66 aircraft, 24 are being developed, built and supplied by BAE Systems, UK, while Hindustan Aeronautical Limited, Bangalore, will manufacture the remaining 42 in India.
