"Today, we announce the completion of the next steps in strategic partnership. Completing this partnership will help us further enhance our cooperation in the areas of civil nuclear, civil space and high-technology commerce," Bush said at a joint press conference with Singh.

Following the signing of a framework pact called the "Next Steps in Strategic Partnership" in 2001, the two countries launched a dialogue last year to forge non-military nuclear cooperation, including civilian space programs and high-technology trade.

However, talks on nuclear cooperation had not moved forward to produce concrete results.

Bush said Monday that cleaner energy resources including nuclear power were vital for the future of both economies, which had begun an energy dialogue to find ways to "work together in this important area."

Singh said they discussed the "importance of ensuring adequate energy and affordable supplies at a time when oil prices remain high.

"Both of us recognize that civilian nuclear energy has a greater role in meeting global energy demands," he said.

Singh, who arrived on Sunday for a four-day state visit, said India had an "ambitious and attainable national code map" on attaining civilian nuclear energy goals.

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