India, South Korea sign accords on space and IT co-operation

New Delhi, Jan 26 (ANI): South Korean President Lee Myung-bak, who is on a four-day visit to New Delhi, witnessed the signing of four pacts to enhance co-operation in various programmes related to science and technology along with Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh.

Apart from the signing of these pacts, both Dr Singh and the South Korean President discussed ways to enhance bilateral and regional co-operation, including in areas such as renewable energy, defence and the biotechnology.

Both leaders recognised the importance of strengthening co-operation in science and in the peaceful use of outer space.

The Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to further peaceful uses of space.

India is regarded as one of the top three space technology leaders in Asia.

The two sides also discussed ways to boost co-operation in the area of civil nuclear energy.

South Korea is a member of Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and had supported a waiver for India at a meeting of the 45-nation grouping in September 2008.

Dr Singh said, "There is great admiration in India for rapid progress made by Korea in all fields. The economic growth model followed by Korea has brought unprecedented prosperity to the people of Korea."

"We would like to learn from Korea as we enhance our own efforts to achieve rapid and inclusive growth in India. We are committed to developing a robust and comprehensive framework for strategic engagement with Korea," he added.

In August 2009, both countries had signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). (ANI)