After Switzerland, US also supports India’s bid to join NSG

Washington: Alike Switzerland, the United States (US) has also backed up India’s bid to join the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).

Deputy National Security Advisor Benjamin Rhodes said the United States had significantly invested with India as far as ‘building cooperation in nuclear security’ is concerned.

Rhodes remarks came in response to a question about how the US had supported India's membership in the NSG.

Rhodes also said the US believed that trying to bring India into international processes would be more effective in promoting the country's security protocols.

"Frankly, it occurs against continued conversations that we have with India about their approach to nuclear weapons and of course, the support that we have always expressed for diplomatic efforts between India and Pakistan," said Rhodes in response to a question at an event organised by the Arms Control Association.

Highlights:

• America's support to NSG bid of India came few hours after Switzerland assured New Delhi of its backup.
• "We have promised to support India in its efforts to become a member of NSG," Swiss Federation President Johan Schneider-Ammann said.
• PM Modi had thanked the Swiss leader for his nation's understanding and support.
• India had formally applied for the membership of the NSG on May 12.