US Limits Indian Export Restrictions .

The US Commerce Department said Monday that it had ended restrictions of exports for India's defense and space industries, aiming to promote cooperative ties between the two nations, but one Chinese analyst said the US' actions are aimed at maintaining its position as a technological leader.

US Commerce Secretary Gary Locke said the action "marks a significant milestone in reinforcing the US-India strategic partnership and moving forward with export-control reforms that will facilitate the trade and cooperation of high-end technology."

The statement came ahead of Locke's visit to India with 24 US businesses on a high-tech trade mission early next month.

"Apparently, the US is courting India to build its unshakable position on the high-tech sphere by using technical cooperation with India in such areas. India's advanced techniques bring benefits to the US in the development of military technology," Fu Xiaoqiang, a professor of South Asia affairs at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, told the Global Times.

Previously, US President Barack Obama announced plans during his trip to New Delhi in November to expand trade and cooperation with India in high-tech sectors.

"These are the first steps in implementing the export-control policy initiatives announced by President Obama and Indian Prime Minister Singh," the US Commerce Department said.

The US also agreed to remove India from several country groups that fall under Export Administration Regulations, resulting in the removal of export license requirements.

Source : world.globaltimes.cn