Australia took a leap forward in pushing its relationship with India to a new high by reversing a long-standing ban on the export of uranium to it despite domestic opposition, paving the way for removal of a major irritant in bilateral ties. The bold decision by Prime Minister Julia Gillard came despite strong protests within her Labor party, but she pushed the move, saying it move would help Australia take advantage of the "Asian century". "We are at the right time in the history of the world to seize a new era of opportunity in this, the Asian century," Gillard had said, justifying her decision to sell uranium to India despite it being a non-signatory to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. "We need to make sure that across our regions we have the strongest possible relationships we can, including with the world's largest democracy, India." Read Full: Indo-Aus ties touch new high with end of uranium irritant - Indian Express
