02 October 2008

Statement by Rice on Approval of U.S.-India Nuclear Deal

Rice applauds bipartisan support to expedite approval of the initiative

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
October 2, 2008

Statement by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice

Congressional Approval of the U.S.-India Agreement for Cooperation Concerning Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy (123 Agreement)

I applaud Congressional approval last evening of the U.S.-India Agreement for Cooperation Concerning Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy (123 Agreement).  This would not have been possible without strong bipartisan support and close cooperation from the Congress over the past three years.  I especially appreciate the support of the leadership of both parties to expedite approval of the initiative in recent weeks.

The U.S.-India 123 Agreement reflects the transformation of our relations and a recognition of India’s emergence on the global stage.  The Agreement bolsters our partnership with the world’s largest democracy and a growing economic power, and will provide economic and job opportunities for our economy.  The Initiative will help India’s population of more than one billion to meet its rapidly increasing energy needs in an environmentally responsible way while reducing the growth of carbon emissions.

The approval of the U.S.-India 123 Agreement will also enhance our global nonproliferation efforts.  The Agreement reflects a common commitment to share both the benefits of the international system and also the burdens and responsibilities of maintaining, strengthening, and defending it.  I am pleased that Congress has endorsed this opportunity to bring the United States and India closer together.  I look forward to a new strategic partnership with India that will provide global leadership in the years ahead.

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