National

Antony puts off Japan visit

NEW DELHI: Defence Minister A.K. Antony has postponed his five-day visit to Japan from June 28 in the wake of the political developments over the India-U.S. nuclear deal. He is a key member of the UPA think tank that is engaged in talks with the Left on the deal.

Mr. Antony had considered not going to Japan following Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s call to cut down on foreign trips. But, following hints from the Foreign Ministry, he was inclined to make the visit.

Diplomats had indicated that with Petroleum Minister Murli Deora pulling out of a meeting of Energy Ministers in Tokyo, a second deferment, this time by Mr. Antony, might not send positive signals ahead of Dr. Singh’s visit for a G-8 meeting in Japan next month.

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