|
Washington, D.C. --- U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ,) founder and former co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, made the following statement today on the House floor in favor of the US-India Nuclear Cooperation Promotion Act:
"Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support H.R. 5682, the United States and India Nuclear Cooperation Promotion Act.
"I also want to commend Chairman Hyde and Ranking Member Lantos for their hard work in constructing a bill that both the Administration and House could support. Their version will set the process by which Congress will in the future review and vote on the final framework agreement to implement the nuclear cooperation deal.
"Based on their shared values of diversity, democracy, and prosperity, the United States and India have a natural connection. Recently, we have fostered a transformed relationship that is central to the future success of the international community. This important legislation would solidify this relationship.
"I believe that India has been a strong US ally and should be viewed as a credible and worthy nation of our help and support. India is ready to accept all of the responsibilities of the world's leading states with respect to advanced nuclear technology. Although India has never been a signatory of the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty, it should not be considered as a “problem” state with regard to non-proliferation issues.
"India has no record of proliferating dual use nuclear technology to other countries. It understands the danger of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and has agreed to key international nonproliferation requirements. India has committed to separate its military and peaceful programs and adhere to international nuclear and missile control restrictions. It is actively working with the Nuclear Suppliers Group and the IAEA to place all of its civil nuclear facilities under international safeguards.
"If implemented, this nuclear agreement strengthens energy security for the United States and India and promotes the development of stable and efficient energy markets in India. Development and expansion of US-Indian civil nuclear cooperation should over time lessen India's dependence on imported hydrocarbons, including those from Iran.
"Thirteen years ago, I formed the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans in order to work for a stronger bilateral relationship between the US and India. Today, the world's two largest democracies have established a remarkable strategic partnership. A civil nuclear cooperation would be a great accomplishment. Its implementation is important for national security and for US-India relations. I urge my colleagues to vote aye on this bill." |
