India's isolation in nuke field to be resolved soon: Pranab

New Delhi, Jun 3 (UNI) External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee today expressed the hope that the government would soon ''resolve'' the issue of India's isolation in the field of nuclear technology.

''India has remained isolated from high-technology commerce due to its position on nuclear energy. We hope to resolve this soon,'' Mr Mukherjee said in his keynote address at the 87th Annual Conference of Assocham. He did not elaborate.

The Minister's comments assume significance as he is heading a panel, consisting of representatives from UPA constituents and the Left, to resolve the differences between the government and the Left parties on the Indo-US nuclear deal.

Despite several meetings, the panel has failed to achieve any breakthrough which might leave the nuclear issue to be resolved by the next government, both in the US and India.

Mr Mukherjee made the comment in the context of ensuring greater access to global technology that would facilitate sustainable development which in turn would result in better healthcare, nutrition, education and housing to all people.

He said the government was convinced that globalisation was an irreversible process and despite the risks, opening up was the best way to achieve economic progress and improve the lives of people.

The Minister released, on the occasion, the chamber's study report on Economic Diplomacy -- India's Strategy for Coming New Economic World Order.

UNI SN RP PM1755