India and the US to work closely on nuclear issues

New Delhi – The recent agreement between India and the US that will allow the latter to transfer nuclear technology to the former has paved way for greater cooperation between the two nations.

The pledge of United States technological aid to India’s nuclear industry was, in fact, the most significant element coming from the first day of the official visit by Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to Washington.

The state visit marked closer relations between the two former rivals and the decision on nuclear technology represents a new chapter in their relationship.

The US had cut off all technology transfers when, in 1998, India proceeded to carry out nuclear tests.

New Delhi needs to build up its civilian nuclear programme to supply its growing economy with energy, but Washington had not relented because India is not a signatory to the Treaty on Non–Proliferation.

However, during the recent visit by the Indian Premier, the US President George W. Bush said that he would ask the Congress to change existing legislation and urge other countries to change international rules to allow transfers in this area.

Some analysts see in the US willingness to cater to India’s needs an attempt to contain Chinese influence in the region and prevent a New Delhi–Beijing alliance.

For his part, Prime Minister Singh, assured that his country would become signatories to international agreements against proliferation and cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).