US Accuses China Of Blocking India’s Bid For Membership Of The Nuclear Suppliers Group

The United States on Monday pointed the gun towards China, accusing it of blocking India’s membership bid to the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and categorised it as a “outlier” on the issue. Addressing the media, Nisha Desai Biswal, assistant secretary of state for South and Central Asia said, “Clearly there is one outlier that needs to be addressed and that is China”. She added that US believes India has met the criteria for entry into NSG.

This statement comes just days before the Obama administration passes on the charge to the Trump administration. Obama wanted to push through India’s membership bid during his tenure. Now, a level of uncertainly exists on weather Trump will pursue India’s case in a manner similar to the current administration or not.

Reacting strongly to Biswal’s comments, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson said that the membership can’t be Obama administration’s farewell gift to India. Talking to the media, she said, “I just want to point out that NSG membership is not some kind of farewell gift for countries to give to each other”.

China, which despite being a part of the elite nuclear club has supplied sensitive nuclear technology and equipment to Pakistan against the rules, wants the group to prepare a general criteria for all non-NPT countries before considering India's request. This, experts believe, is a part of Beijing’s strategy to make way for Pakistan. Pakistan applied for entry into the group soon after India sent its application early last year.