NSG not stern enough on Sino-Pak N-deal, feels India; but otherwise elated

Indian officials noted with satisfaction the statement issued by the Nuclear Suppliers' Group (NSG) at the end of a two-day meet on Friday on the prospect of civil nuclear cooperation with it, but were reportedly wary of the stance taken by the 46-member body on the proposed China-Pakistan nuclear deal.

Indian officials, who were closely watching the developments of the 21-25 June meeting of NSG, said these were largely to New Delhi's satisfaction.

"The group continued to consider the implementation of the statement on civil nuclear cooperation with India. It noted actions taken to adhere to the NSG guidelines and the voluntary commitments made by India," said the statement issued at Christchurst, New Zealand.

The 46-nation NSG, which met in the New Zealand capital of Wellington, has called for more consultations and greater transparency on the China-Pakistan nuclear deal.

In what appears to be an indirect reference to the deal, the NSG has said in a statement, "The group took note of briefings on developments concerning non-NSG states. It agreed on the value of ongoing consultation and transparency."

China has agreed to build two nuclear power reactors in Pakistan, a deal that many, including India, believe violates the NSG's strict guidelines.