Cabinet nod to legal, judicial pact with Afghanistan, Oman

The union cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday gave its nod for signing and ratification of agreements on mutual legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters with Oman and Afghanistan.

The agreement is for service of judicial orders, summons and other legal and judicial documents or processes, taking of evidence through request, and execution of judgments, settlements and arbitral awards as some of its features, said an official statement here.

It also applies to any request for reciprocal legal assistance relating to civil and commercial matters submitted before or after its entry into force.

The agreement also deals with taking of evidence by diplomatic and consular representatives from nationals of the country they represent, without compulsion, in order to help in completion of judicial proceedings commenced in the courts of the country they represent.

"The agreement shall come into force on the 30th day after the exchange of instrument of ratification. It shall remain in force until terminated by either party by giving six months' notice," it added.

The provisions of the agreement are in conformity with the provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 and the Arbitration and Cancellation Act, 1996.

The agreement, expected to be beneficial for the citizens of both countries, will also fulfill the desire of both countries to strengthen the bonds of friendship and fruitful cooperation in the judicial and legal spheres, the statement said.