Though it is too early to say whether India gets a berth in the elite Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), the softening of China’s stand towards India over the issue is a positive development. The about turn comes with China making it clear that doors are open for new members who haven’t signed the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). But members of NSG should focus whether the criteria is not changed. This line of thinking comes exactly what the Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had said recently. She had said China is not opposed to India’s entry into the NSG but is only focused on criteria procedure to India’s membership. In fact China and Pakistan have been closely coordinating move to block India’s entry into NSG though Pakistan too has not signed the NPT. In this three-sided game it is not clear whether China’s tactics of using Pakistan’s non-credential with NSG is to clear scores with India or vice versa Pakistan is riding on China back. India has to sign the NSG membership keeping its growing demand for energy. This it looks China has understood so could be the softening of the stand. America has made the stand very clear about India joining the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) regime will not trigger any arms race in the continent but has raised apprehension over the recent development. There is increased security challenges that accompany growing stockpiles and the increased risk that a conventional conflict between India and Pakistan could escalate to include nuclear use. The US had called on NSG participating governments to support India’s application when it comes up at the NSG plenary later this month. India’s entry into the MTCR adds to its street creed. One of the four non-proliferation regimes, India’s application cleared all hurdles earlier to MTCR, a 34-nation exclusive club which controls transfer of missile, space and related technology. It is important that there be a sustained and resilient dialogue process between the two neighbours, and that all parties in the region continuously act with maximum restraint and work collaboratively towards reducing tensions. Improvements in Indo-Pak bilateral relations would greatly enhance prospects for lasting peace, stability and prosperity in the region.
