India and Canada Decide on Terms of Nuclear Deal

Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.  

1. terms and conditions (n.) [turms][and][kuh n-dish-uh ns] – part of an agreement or contract which states the rules and requirements that must be followed by both parties

Example: Before signing a contract, one must review the terms and conditions very carefully.

2. nuclear (adj.) [noo-klee-er, nyoo-] – coming from energy produced by the splitting or joining of atoms

Example: Most of their energy sources come from nuclear power plants.

3. rapid (adj.) [rap-id] – happening at a fast rate or pace

Example: The young Internet company experienced rapid growth in a year.

4. secure (v.) [si-kyoo r] – to acquire or get possession of something

Example: The student needs to secure some school supplies for their group’s project.

5. negotiation (n.) [ni-goh-shee-ey-shuh n, -see-] – a discussion to form an agreement or decision

Example: The finance department is responsible for negotiations with local and international suppliers.

Article
Read the text below.

India and Canada have finally decided on the terms and conditions of a nuclear power deal that they have been discussing since 2010. The deal, once implemented, will help India with its growing energy needs. Over the past years, India has been experiencing rapid economic growth, leading to an increased demand for energy in the country. India is looking into using more nuclear energy to meet the energy needs. The country is planning to build over 30 nuclear reactors, devices that produce electricity, within the next years. In addition, the country is planning to get1/4 (one-fourth) of its electricity from nuclear energy. To reach the goal, India is looking for possible sources of uranium, a chemical used as fuel for nuclear reactors. Canada has large amounts of uranium, but stopped supplying India with uranium exports in 1976. With the new deal, however, India can soon secure large quantities of high quality uranium from Canada to support its nuclear power program. Canadian prime minister Stephen Harper and Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh both agree that Canada would be an important supplier to India. Harper added that the nuclear deal with India is an important economic opportunity that could create more jobs in the Canadian trade industry. Aside from making a deal with Canada, India is making negotiations with Australia, which holds around 40% of world’s uranium. South Korea has also agreed to export nuclear energy technology to India.

Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.   

Discussion A

·         In your opinion, how important is nuclear energy for a country with a booming economy like India?

·         Would you say that the use of nuclear energy is a sign of progress? Why or why not?

Discussion B

·         Do you agree with the use of nuclear energy? Why or why not?

·         Why do you think many countries still want to use nuclear energy despite its dangers and risks?

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