Stronger energy relations set stage for trade pact with US

LPG DEAL MARKS LONG-TERM COMMITMENT, SAYS GOYAL

- MUKESH JAGOTA

THE SCALING UP of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) imports from the US is part of a plan to address Washington's concerns about the trade deficit with India, but the government is clear the much-touted trade deal with that country will take place only if it is "fair.

India's one-year LPG sourcing contract with the US announced on Monday is part of a long-term deal that is indicative of the progress in relations between the two sides, Commerce and INDUSTRY Minister Piyush Goyal said.

He said that the bilateral trade agreement (BTA) could be announced as soon as it becomes fair, balanced and equitable. "When the deal becomes fair, equitable, balanced you will hear good news soon," he said.