NSG may meet to discuss non-NPT signatories' entry

In a new boost to the India’s dreams to enter the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), the group is likely to meet again before the end of the year to specially discuss the process for allowing non-NPT signatories into the 48-nation grouping. In the face of strong opposition from China and a few other countries including Brazil and Switzerland, India's application for membership did not go through at the NSG plenary which concluded in Seoul two days back.

India is not a signatory to the Nuclear non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and that was the ground used to reject India's bid.

However, sources said today that at the suggestion of Mexico, it has now been decided that another meeting of NSG should be held before the end of the year to consider the criteria for allowing non-NPT signatories like India into the group.

Mexico's suggestion was also opposed by China but it was supported by many other countries including the US.

A panel for informal consultations on India's membership has also been set up by the NSG and it will be headed by Argentine Ambassador Rafael Grossi.