US snaps all scientific ties with India
The US, which has asked seven Indian scientists to return home and is contemplating similar action against many more, has ordered suspension of all Department of Energy and National Laboratory financed interactions with India and Pakistan except for humanitarian assistance.

SAARC summit to adopt treaty favouring free trade area
A treaty reaffirming the commitment of member countries to a South Asian Free Trade Area is likely to be adopted at the 10th SAARC summit which to be held in Colombo from July 29 to 31. The idea behind the treaty is a reaffirmation of political commitment to this concept.

Obuchi in favour of easing loan curbs on Pak, but not India
Japan is considering easing of sanctions against Pakistan in view of its economic crisis and foreign exchange crunch, but is unlikely to do the same in the case of India, prime minister designate and foreign minister Keizo Obuchi said yesterday.

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