"Yes, we should believe in our strength. Strength respects strength. That is what is happening in the process of Indo-US nuclear deal agreement," said the former President who has also replied to questions posed by some students.

Seeking to allay concerns over the Hyde Act, he said the laws and regulations of the United States would not come in the way of the agreement. The Act enables America to have nuclear trade with India and constraints imposed by it are applicable to firms in that country only, he said.

"Indo-US nuclear deal does not have any binding effect on the socio, economic, and political decision of our nation with USA. We have our own independent foreign policy. The government of a particular time certainly has the option to protect the sovereign interest of the nation," he said.

"Certainly," Kalam said, "this nuclear agreement protects India's interest in the nuclear power sector. Separation plan for civil and defence nuclear facility clearly gives the independence in maintaining the strategic decision. Nobody can interfere in our foreign policy.

"We can maintain our strategic autonomy in social, economic and political spheres," he added. Kalam also said the 123 Agreement did not impose constraints on India with regard to signing any contract with firms from other countries.

"Please note that 123 Agreement is a framework agreement and not an implementing contract. Whenever implementing agreements or contracts are signed between Indian entities and US energy firms, India and US firms have to ensure that they are in accordance with laws and regulations as applicable to them.

... contd.