Date:26/02/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/02/26/stories/2006022604471200.htm

National

Swamy welcomes Bush remark on nuclear deal

Special Correspondent

CHENNAI: Janata Party president Subramaniam Swamy has welcomed U.S. President George Bush's statement that patience is required to finalise the proposed India-U.S. civilian nuclear deal.

In a statement issued here, Mr. Swamy said the proposed deal was a "manifestation of the worst of both alternatives - the difficulties of continuing on our own as before, and the restrictions to adhere to if India were a signatory to the NPT [Non-proliferation Treaty]."

"Focus on terrorism"

The division of nuclear reactors as civilian and military was to be permanent for India under the deal. For nuclear weapon States, re-classification of nuclear reactors was based on their volition, he added.

"It is best now for India to put this proposed agreement aside and consider more urgent issues like terrorism and economic matters for partnership," Mr. Swamy said, cautioning the Centre not to rush into signing the deal during President Bush's visit.