Trump administration urges countries to support India's NSG bid
The Trump administration has reaffirmed the US' support for India's membership bid to the 48-member Nuclear Suppliers group (NSG) in a report submitted to Congress. India has garnered the support of most members of the NSG, which governs global nuclear trade, but China has repeatedly blocked India's entry. The report calls for closer Indo-US defense ties under the Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI).
US says India is ready for NSG membership
"The United States welcomed India's application to join the NSG and it continues to re-affirm that India is ready for the membership. The United States has called on NSG members to support India's application," a joint Defence and Department of State said.
US-India defense to get fresh impetus by dedicated leadership
The report notes that the US-India DTTI's future leadership would be held by someone having experience in defense acquisition and technology to ensure its success. The individual would ensure that all impeding bilateral defense trade-related issues are resolved. The report was submitted to Congress as required under the National Defence Authorisation Act (NDAA) 2017, which sets military budgets and policy.
US-India conduct $15bn worth of defense trade
The report said American defense companies have submitted proposals to India for the sale of F-16 Block 70 and F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter aircraft. "These proposals will help create and maintain jobs in both countries and demonstrate the depth of our commitment to defence cooperation," it said. India and the US have conducted over $15 billion in defense trade since 2008.
