US Cong delegation to leave for India tomorrow

Washington, Apr 8 (UNI) An eight-member Congressional delegation leaves for New Delhi tomorrow to discuss the recent Indo-US civilian nuclear agreement and look into the transformed relations between two countries.

The delegation, led by Speaker of the House J Dennis Hastert, ''will discuss the recent initiatives between the two countries, including the importance of civil nuclear cooperation initiatives in strengthening the international non-proliferation system,'' according to a press statement made by the Speaker's office.

The group will also visit Nepal and Vietnam, the statement said.

The delegation, including seven Republicans and one Democrat, will be visiting New Delhi and Jaipur.

It is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Indian Parliamentary leaders, and Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje.

Besides Mr Hastert (Illionois), the delegation included Michael Oxley (Ohio), Sherwood Boehlert (New York), Frank Lucas (Oaklohoma), Ray LaHood (Illinois), Paul Ryan (Wisconsin), Randy Neugebauer (Texas) all Republicans and Democrat Dan Boren (Oaklohoma).

With the Senate and the House observing a ten-day Easter recess from April 10, Senator Charles Hagel(R) also announced that he planned to travel to India, Pakistan and Afghanistan between April 8-15.

''Our relationships in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan are important to US strategic interests. Security, stability and economic development in South Asia are critical components for the future of this region. The US-India Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement will be among the specific issues that I will discuss with Indian officials,'' he said.

UNI XC VJ RN0816