US and Indian officials will discuss ways to unblock billions of dollars of potential trade in nuclear energy.India and the United States signed a landmark civilian nuclear deal in 2008.

Holding up the trade is India's reluctance to pass legislation shielding suppliers from liability in the event of a nuclear accident, a deviation from international norms.Indian and US officials have been engaged in close consultations.

Delhi has said it cannot change the law -- but is willing to address US concerns within that framework, by offering an insurance pool which can cover supplier liability.

Officials say there has been progress, but emphasise that even if there is a breakthrough, what can be expected is a change in US government's approach to the issue. Details will eventually have to be worked out by US companies with Indian counterparts for specific projects.