United States and India Nuclear Cooperation Promotion Act of 2006
UNITED STATES AND INDIA NUCLEAR COOPERATION PROMOTION ACT OF 2006 -- (House of Representatives - July 26, 2006)
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Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Chairman, I rise today as an original cosponsor of the civilian nuclear agreement. As a member of the International Relations Committee and past cochair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, this is an issue I have enthusiastically supported. I want to thank Chairman Henry Hyde, Ranking Member Tom Lantos, Chairman Ed Royce, Caucus Cochairs Gary Ackerman and Joe Crowley, and all other members of the committee who have crafted well-balanced, bipartisan legislation.
Some incorrectly believe this agreement will have a negative impact on nonproliferation. In contrast, it will greatly strengthen our current nonproliferation system. India has long been outside of the international nonproliferation regimes. Under this agreement, India will place 14 of 22 existing and planned nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards.
For 30 years, India has protected its nuclear programs. It has not allowed proliferation of its nuclear technology. India is the world's largest democracy, with the 11th largest economy. It is treated uniquely because of its history of maintaining a successful nuclear nonproliferation regime. I saw firsthand on a visit to India in December the vibrant future of India as America's partner in the codel led by Dan Burton.
Passage of this agreement promotes meaningful mutual economic benefits for India and America. Secretary Rice has noted that as many as 5,000 direct jobs and 15,000 indirect jobs could be created as a result of this agreement. In addition, India will be better positioned to compete in the global economy, and trade between our countries will continue to grow at a record pace, such as in 2005 when we recorded a 30 percent increase in exports to India.
In conclusion, God bless our troops and we will never forget September 11.
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